Reviewer ’s report  
 
Title: Cognitive appraisal of exposure to specific types of trauma. A study of gender differences  
 
Version: 1 Date: 25 Mar 2016  
 
Reviewer: Louise Newman  
 
Reviewer's report:  
 
The finding is interesting and the research approach is well described . However, there are some 
issues in the interpretation of the findings and their signifi cance that could be better addressed. 
Specifically, there is little reflection on the gendered differences in sumpt profiles and adaptation 
on a PTSD sample. The paper could look at both positive and negative adaptations to trauma and 
the domains of this a s shaped by gender identification. The capacity for emotional expression 
and regulation in women may be a protective factor interns of disability. Deficits in emotional 
expression and regulation  in men  be a risk factor  
 
 
The discussion should also discuss the gendered nature of trauma in that womens experience of 
sexual and interpersonal trauma shapes processes of adaptation and survival . It is  simplistic to 
assume that having more male attributes is a positive protective effect  
 
 
A control sole of interper sonal trauma would be of interest  
 
 
With reworking of the discussion this is a useful pap get  
 
 
 
 
Are the methods appropriate and well described?  
If not, please specify what is required in your comments to the authors.  
 
Yes 
 
Does the work include the necessary controls?  
If not, please specify which controls are required in your comments to the authors.  
 
No 
 
Are the conclusions drawn adequately supported by the data shown?  
If not, please explain in your comments to the authors.  
 
No 
Are you able to assess any statistics in the manuscript or would you recommend an  
additional statistical review?  
If an additio nal statistical review is recommended, please specify what aspects require further  
assessment in your comments to the editors.  
 
Not relevant to this manuscript  
 
Quality of written English  
Please indicate the quality of language in the manuscript:  
 
Acceptab le 
 
 
 
 
Declaration of competing interests  
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