The experience of trauma in people with severe psychiatric conditions: a gender perspective

Abstract

Exposure to traumatic events is higher in people with severe psychiatric conditions (SPC) than those without, yet little is known about possible gender differences in the prevalence and type of trauma experienced as well as its relationship to subsequent psychological symptomatology. The present study aims to (1) examine the prevalence for both genders of trauma exposure and associated mental health outcomes in a SPC population, (2) explore possible patterns of exposure to traumatic events among men and women separately with SPC, and (3) explore the association between trauma patterns of each gender as associated with specific mental health outcomes (i.e., PTSD symptoms, general mental health, and well-being). Three hundred twenty-three participants with SPC were included (men n = 201 and women n = 122). PTSD symptoms, general mental health, and well-being were assessed. A Latent Class analysis (LCA) approach was used. Results indicated more events of physical violence by strangers in men than women, while women experienced more episodes of domestic violence. Regarding symptomatology, women showed significantly higher levels of PTSD re-experiencing symptoms, distress, and poorer mental health than men. LCA identified three different patterns of trauma exposure related with each gender. It is imperative to not only have trauma-focused interventions in front-line services for people with SPC, but also to tailor interventions to gender differences.