bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The correlates of male adults' perceptions of their early sexual experiences
Authors: Steever Ethan E. , Follette Victoria M. , Naugle Amy E.
Published: December 2002

This study investigates the relationship between men's perceptions of their earliest sexual experiences and adult psychosocial functioning. Twenty men who identified themselves as sexual abuse survivors were compared with 20 men who would be classified as sexual abuse survivors by common research definitions, but do not identify themselves as survivors, and to 20 men who reported only noncoercive childhood sexual experiences with peers. Men who self‐identified as survivors reported nearly twice the level of psychological distress, and were twice as likely to have utilized mental health services as the other two groups. The current article also examines differences in perpetrator and event characteristics.
Predictors of psychological distress following serious injury
Authors: Richmond Therese S. , Kauder Donald
Published: December 2002

Posttraumatic psychological distress was assessed in 109 surivors of serious physical injury during acute hospitalization and at 3 months postdischarge. Participants had an average of 4.4 injuries, with a mean injury severity score of 15.5, denoting moderate to severe injuries. Using the Impact of Event Scale (IES), the mean total IES score in‐hospital was 22.5 and at 3 months postdischarge was 30.6. Approximately 32% of individuals experienced high levels of distress in‐hospital, and this increased to 49% at 3 months postdischarge. The regression model that best explained the variance in posttraumatic psychological distress at 3 months postdischarge included greater psychological distress during hospitalization, a positive drug/alcohol screen on hospital admission, younger age, and the lack of anticipating problems returning to normal life activities. These findings suggest that factors present during acute hospitalization may he used to identify individuals at risk for increased psychological distress, several months following serious physical injury.
Efficacy of emotion focused therapy for adult survivors of child abuse: A preliminary study
Authors: Paivio Sandra C. , Nieuwenhuis James A.
Published: December 2002

This study examined the effectiveness of Emotion Focused Therapy with 32 adult survivors (EFT‐AS) of childhood abuse (emotional, physical, and sexual). EFT‐AS is a 20‐week individual psychotherapy based on current emotion theory and experiential therapy theory and research. The study employed a quasi‐experimental design in which participants, who met screening criteria, were assigned to therapy or a variably delayed therapy condition. Clients receiving EFT‐AS achieved significant improvements in multiple domains of disturbance. Clients in the delayed treatment condition showed minimal improvements over the wait interval but after EFT‐AS showed significant improvements comparable to the immediate therapy group. These effects were maintained at 9 months (on average) follow‐up.
The Interface Between Countertransference and Projective Identification in a Case Presented to Peer Supervision
Authors: Likhite Marisa Ladoulis
Published: December 2002

This case report, presented to a supervision group, is a prenatal genetic counseling casethat caused me a great deal of emotional discomfort as the events unfolded. Thediscomfort originated during my first meeting with the couple for routine preamniocentesiscounseling and continued through later encounters. This case illustrates the process ofworking through countertransference and projective identification issues that may arise ingenetic counseling.
Outcomes of single versus multiple trauma exposure in a screening sample
Authors: Green Bonnie L. , Goodman Lisa A. , Krupnick Janice L. , Corcoran Carole B. , Petty Rachel M. , Stockton Patricia , Stern Nicole M.
Published: December 2002

Most studies ignore prior trauma exposure when evaluating outcomes of target events. This study explored symptom severity associated with different types of traumatic experiences occurring alone and with multiple exposure. The Stressful Life Events Screening Questionnaire categorized 1,909 sophomore women into groups including no trauma exposure, exposure to a serious non‐Criterion A event only, exposure to several unique noninterpersonal and interpersonal events, and exposure to multiple interpersonal events. Women with noninterpersonal trauma did not differ from those without trauma on the Trauma Symptom Inventory. Only interpersonal trauma and non‐Criterion A events were associated with elevated symptoms; multiple‐exposure participants had significantly higher symptoms than all other groups. Complex trauma histories should be accounted for, even in studies of one target event.
“Amnesia” for summer camps and high school graduation: Memory work increases reports of prior periods of remembering less
Authors: Read J. Don , Lindsay D. Stephen
Published: December 2002

Claims regarding amnesia for childhood sexual abuse have often been based on studies of adults' responses to questions of the form, “Was there ever a period of time when you remembered less of the abuse than you do now?” In this experiment, 43 adult (mean age = 42) participants rated their current and prior memories of several nontraumatic childhood/adolescent events. Reports of prior periods of less memory were fairly common. Participants then engaged in “reminiscence” or “enhanced” retrieval activities directed toward remembering more about a selected target event. Following retrieval, 35% of the reminiscence condition participants reported prior poor memory for the target event, as did 70% of the enhanced condition. These results highlight the need for appropriate control conditions in retrospective studies of amnesia for childhood trauma.
Head injury as a predictor of psychological outcome in combat veterans
Authors: Vasterling Jennifer J. , Constans Joseph I. , Hanna‐Pladdy Brenda
Published: December 2002

Although it is recognized that psychosocial variables influence the expression of psychopathology following trauma exposure, physiological variables have received less attention as potential mediators of psychological outcome in trauma victims. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship of head injury to psychological outcome in 171 combat veterans seeking compensation for service‐connected disabilities for mental disorders attributed to etiologies other than head injury. Veterans underwent structured psychiatric diagnostic interview and completed self‐report measures of combat exposure, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and occurrence of head injury. Comparisons between veterans with and without history of head injury indicated that head injury was associated with more severe depression. Regression analysis suggested that head injury predicted depression, but not PTSD, severity.
Randomized clinical trial of brief eclectic psychotherapy for police officers with posttraumatic stress disorder
Authors: Gersons Berthold P. R. , Carlier Ingrid V. E. , Lamberts Regina D. , van der Kolk Bessel A.
Published: December 2002

The authors report on a randomized, controlled clinical trial on the treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), comparing manualized psychotherapy to wait‐list control. This is the first study to evaluate Brief Eclectic Psychotherapy (BEP), which combines cognitive–behavioral and psychodynamic approaches within one treatment method. Forty‐two police officers with the diagnosis of PTSD participated in the study; 22 were randomly assigned to the treatment group and 20 to the wait‐list control group. Assessments of PTSD and comorbid conditions were made 1 week before treatment, after treatment session 4, upon termination of treatment (16 sessions), and at follow‐up 3 months later. As expected, no significant differences between groups were observed at pretest or at session 4. At posttest and at follow‐up, BEP had produced significant improvement in PTSD, in work resumption, and in some comorbid conditions.
Accident cognitions and subsequent psychological trauma
Authors: Jeavons Sue , Greenwood Kenneth M. , de L. Horne David J.
Published: December 2002

This study used a sample of 72 consecutive attendees to hospital following motor vehicle accidents. It aimed to assess the relationship between demographic variables, details of the accident and cognitions about the accident recorded soon afterward, and degree of psychological trauma 3 and 6 months later. Psychological trauma was assessed using the General Health Questionnaire, Impact of Event Scale, and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Interview. A structured interview was used to gain information about demographic, accident, and accident cognition variables. Results showed that initial cognitions such as perceived threat to life, rather than demographic or accident variables, had the strongest relationships to subsequent trauma.
Mental health service utilization by victims of crime
Authors: New Michelle , Berliner Lucy
Published: December 2002

Records of 318 adult and 608 child victims of crime, eligible for Crime Victims Compensation (CVC) in Washington State, were examined. Demographic, crime, and mental health information wax collected. A majority of child victims had experienced sexual assault (88% ); adults were victims of both sexual (38%) and physical assault (40%). The median number of mental health sessions used by children was 23 sessions, at an average cost of $975 per case to the CVC program. Adults used a median of 15 mental health sessions at a cost of $905. Patterns of treatment utilization were associated with some demographic, crime, and psychological variables. Sexual‐assault and PTSD diagnosis were associated with greater use for both children and adults. Therapist variables were unrelated to use. Findings are discussed in light of concerns about coverage of mental health services.
The relationship among personality variables, exposure to traumatic events, and severity of posttraumatic stress symptoms
Authors: Lauterbach  , Vrana Scott
Published: December 2002

In examining predictors of posttraumatic stress, researchers have focused on trauma intensity and devoted less attention to other variables. This study examined how personality and demographic variables are related to the likelihood of experiencing a trauma, and to the severity of posttraumatic symptoms in a sample of 402 college students reporting a wide range of trauma. Elevations in antisocial and borderline traits were significant predictors of retraumatization, accounting for 12% of the variance. Personality variables and trauma intensity were significant predictors of PTSD severity, accounting for 43% of the variance. Neuroticism interacted with trauma intensity in predicting Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) severity. Among persons low in Neuroticism, there was a modest trauma intensity—PTSD relationship, whereas among persons high in neuroticism there was a strong relationship.
Consequences of childhood abuse among male psychiatric inpatients: Dual roles as victims and perpetrators
Authors: Cloitre Marylene , Tardiff Kenneth , Marzuk Peter M. , Leon Andrew C. , Portera Laura
Published: December 2002

The relationship between retrospective self‐reports of childhood abuse and subsequent interpersonal violence was assessed among 354 consecutive male inpatient admissions. Three logistic regressions revealed that, controlling for sociodemo‐graphic and diagnostic variables, the association between childhood abuse and three mutually exclusive adult negative outcomes were as follows: (1) being a perpetrator of violence (Odds Ratio [OR] = ns), (2) being a victim of violence (OR = 2.5), and (3) being a perpetrator and victim (OR = 4.9). The results suggest that, among men with significant psychiatric impairments and childhood abuse, rates of adult victimization are high, and the most frequent negative outcome reflects involvement in dual roles of perpetrator and victim. The possible dynamics of this relationship are discussed.
Qualitative Cancer Genetic Counseling Research, Part II: Findings from a Exploratory Ethnographic Study in a Cancer Clinic
Authors: Peters June A. , McAllister Carol L. , Rubinstein Wendy S.
Published: December 2002

This is a report of the preliminary findings of a brief exploratory ethnographic study in a cancer diagnosis and treatment clinic. The main research purpose was to explore the meaning of cancer and cancer treatment to patients themselves and to their relatives and close friends. The methods are described in detail in a paper focusing on the experiences of being a novice ethnographer (Peters et al. (2001) J Genet Counsel 10(2):133–150.). The preliminary results of this exploratory fieldwork indicate that the experience of attending a cancer treatment clinic for evaluation and/or treatment is a complex social, emotional as well as medical process for patients and families. Themes with relevance to genetic counselors that emerged from this early observation period included ideas about causes of cancer, the complex nature of families and kinship, coping and support, use of food, and healing. These initial findings have implications for genetic counseling practice and hopefully will stimulate more qualitative social and behavioral research in cancer genetic counseling.
Qualitative Cancer Genetic Counseling Research, Part I: Ethnography in a Cancer Clinic
Authors: Peters June A. , McAllister Carol L. , Rubinstein Wendy S.
Published: December 2002

This is a report of the experience of several months' ethnographic research by a genetic counselor researcher in a cancer treatment clinic. One goal of the exercise was to directly experience a method of qualitative research known as ethnography, which relies heavily on participant‐observation, in an applied clinical setting. Another goal was to explore a previously undescribed research area in the genetic counseling literature, namely, the meaning of cancer and cancer treatment for affected individuals and their support companions. Here we report on a personal account of the experiences of conducting and publishing the research. The preliminary analysis and results of this field experience are published elsewhere (Peters et al. (2001) J Genet Counsel 10(2):151–168.). These initial findings support the feasibility of genetic counselors, who are trained in specific social science methodologies, to conduct qualitative research pertinent to genetic counseling practice.
The Role of Expectations in Effective Genetic Counseling
Authors: Jay Lisa R. , Afifi Walid A. , Samter Wendy
Published: December 2002

The goals for this investigation were to assess individuals' expectations for social support from genetic counselors, and to explore how these expectations influence perceptions of genetic counselor effectiveness. Two studies were conducted to address these goals. Results from the first study show that individuals most frequently expect genetic counselors to provide options and support following the disclosure of distressing test results, while data from the second study demonstrate that expectations play a significant role in individuals' assessment of genetic counselor effectiveness. These findings shed light on what individuals expect from genetic counselors following the disclosure of medically positive test results and inform how these expectations influence the success of genetic counseling sessions.
A Survey of Genetic Counselors' Use of Informed Consent Documents for Prenatal Genetic Counseling Sessions
Authors: Jacobson Gretchen M. , Veach Patricia McCarthy , LeRoy Bonnie S.
Published: December 2002

Thirty six members of the Prenatal Diagnosis Special Interest Group of the National Society of Genetic Counselors were interviewed about their use of informed consent documents for the genetic counseling component of their prenatal genetic counseling sessions and their perceptions of the utility and feasibility of such documents. Major findings include (1) None of the genetic counselors currently used a consent document describing the genetic counseling component of the session itself; (2) Only three participants stated that they had ever used an informed consent document for this component of the session; (3) They disagreed about the importance and usefulness of such a document; (4) There was variability in their reported likelihood of using a document if one were available; (5) There was a fair amount of agreement about the types of information to include on an informed consent document for genetic counseling; over half of the sample endorsed 8 of 10 topics; and (6) Participants identified 10 obstacles to using such a document. Recommendations for genetic counseling practice, policy, and research are given.
Prevalence of personality disorders among combat veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder
Authors: Bollinger Andreas R. , Riggs David S. , Blake Dudley D. , Ruzek Josef I.
Published: December 2002

Many combat veterans with PTSD have co‐occurring symptoms of other forms of psychopathology; however, there have been limited studies examining personality disorders among this population. The few extant studies typically have assessed only two or three personality disorders or examined a small sample, resulting in an incomplete picture and scope of comorbidity. This study assessed all DSM‐III‐R personality disorders in 107 veterans in a specialized, inpatient unit. Using the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM‐III‐R Personality Disorders, 79.4% of the participants were diagnosed with at least one personality disorder: 29.9% received only one diagnosis, 2l.5% had two, 15.9% had three, and 12.1% had four or more. The most frequent single diagnoses were Avoidant (47.2%), Paranoid (46.2%), Obsessive‐Compulsive (28.3%), and Antisocial (15.1%) personality disorders.
Assault, PTSD, family substance use, and depression as risk factors for cigarette use in youth: Findings from the national survey of adolescents
Authors: Acierno Ron , Kilpatrick Dean G. , Resnick Heidi , Saunders Benjamin , De Arellano Michael , Best Connie
Published: December 2002

A national household probability sample of 4,023 adolescents aged 12 to 17 years was surveyed by telephone via structured clinical interview to determine the impact of familial substance use, sexual and physical assault, witnessed violence, depression and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) on risk of smoking. Results indicated that familial substance use increased risk of smoking only for boys and sexual assault or depression increased risk of smoking only for girls. Age, Caucasian ethnicity, and experiencing physical assault or witnessing violence elevated risk of current cigarette use for both genders. By contrast, PTSD per se was not associated with increased risk of smoking, after the effects of other variables were controlled.
Ataque de nervios and history of childhood trauma
Authors: Schechter Daniel S. , Marshall Randall , Salmán Ester , Goetz Deborah , Davies Sharon , Liebowitz Michael R.
Published: December 2002

Objective: Ataque de nervios is a common, self‐labeled Hispanic folk diagnosis. It typically describes episodic, dramatic outbursts of negative emotion in response to a stressor, sometimes involving destructive behavior. Dissociation and affective dysregulation during such episodes suggested a link to childhood trauma. We therefore assessed psychiatric diagnoses, history of ataque, and childhood trauma in treatment‐seeking Hispanic outpatients (N = 70). Significantly more subjects with an anxiety or affective disorder plus ataque reported a history of physical abuse, sexual abuse, and/or or a substance‐abusing caretaker than those with psychiatric disorder but no ataque. In some Hispanic individuals, ataque may represent a culturally sanctioned expression of extreme affect dysregulation associated with childhood trauma. Patients with ataque de nervios should receive a thorough traumatic history assessment.
Trauma symptoms in bone marrow transplant survivors: The role of nonmedical life events
Authors: Duhamel Katherine N. , Smith Meredith Y. , Vickberg Suzanne M. Johnson , Papadopoulos Esperanza , Ostroff Jamie , Winkel Gary , Manne Sharon , Redd William H.
Published: December 2002

This cross‐sectional study investigated the association of trauma‐related symptomatology and recent life events in cancer survivors following bone marrow transplantation (BMT). One hundred adults averaging 4.4 years post‐BMT were interviewed. Participants reported their trauma‐related symptomatology regarding cancer and its treatment as well as the number and valence of recent life events. Results indicated that the more negative life events a person experienced, the greater his/her trauma‐related symptomatology. The association of traumarelated symptomatology with positive events varied by the individuals' level of physical functioning. For individuals with poorer physical functioning, higher levels of trauma‐related symptomatology were associated with a greater number of positive events, suggesting the greater vulnerability of these individuals to any type of change in their life.
Health problems among Latin‐American and Middle‐Eastern refugees in the Netherlands: Relations with violence exposure and ongoing sociopsychological strain
Authors: Hondius Adger J. K. , van Willigen Loes H. M. , Kleijn Wim Chr. , van der Ploeg Henk M.
Published: December 2002

In two studies (n = 480; n = 156), the health problems (somatic, psychological, and migration‐related complaints) of refugees were examined, in relation to violence, demographic, and asylum variables (ongoing sociopsychological strain). High frequencies for torture events and a substantial number of medical complaints were reported, but few cases of diagnosable Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) were identified (Study I: 6%; Study II: 11%). Not only reported violence, but also the current social situation contributed to the experiencing of ongoing health complaints. Refugees attributed their somatic and psychological complaints to illness (48%) and to torture (29%) and psychological complaints, in particular, to worries related to the postmigration situation (40%). Paying attention only to health complaints and to past violent experiences is too limited an approach in responding to the needs of refugees.
Trauma severity and initial reactions as precipitating factors for posttraumatic stress symptoms and chronic dissociation in former political prisoners
Authors: Maercker Andreas , Beauducel André , Schützwohl Matthias
Published: December 2002

This study explores the relationships among trauma severity, initial trauma reactions, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms, and dissociation in a group of 98 former East‐German political prisoners. Trauma severity and initial reactions were assessed using a persecution checklist and a coping process questionnaire. PTSD symptoms were assessed through a structured clinical interview. Chronic dissociation was evaluted using the Dissociative Experiences Scale. The two assumptions of the study were confirmed by structural equation modeling: (I) Lifetime PTSD symptoms were predominantly predicted by initial reactions to trauma and (2) chronic dissociation was predominantly predicted by trauma severity. The first finding is discussed in relation to the participants' initial trauma processing. The second finding is discussed especially in the context of trauma duration and dissociation‐prone coping attempts. Limitations concerning the long‐term interval between traumatization and data collection are discussed.
A preliminary investigation of the role of strategic withholding of emotions in PTSD
Authors: Roemer Lizabeth , Litz Brett T. , Orsillo Susan M. , Wagner Amy W.
Published: December 2002

Individuals with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) experience deficits in emotional responding, yet to date these deficits have been poorly understood. This study is an initial investigation of the role of strategic, intentional withholding of emotional responses among individuals with PTSD. In a sample of 61 combat veterans, veterans with PTSD reported significantly more frequent and intense withholding of their emotional responses than did combat veterans without PTSD. The tendency to withhold emotional responses was associated with PTSD, beyond measures of comorbid distress. The implications of these findings for future research and interventions aimed at deficits in emotional responding are discussed.
Prenatal Diagnosis for Inherited Deafness—What is the Potential Demand?
Authors: Middleton Anna , Hewison Jenny , Mueller Robert
Published: December 2002

Genetic testing for inherited deafness is now available within some genetics centres. This study used a structured questionnaire to assess the potential uptake of prenatal diagnosis (PND) for inherited deafness, and document the opinions of deaf and hearing individuals toward PND and termination of pregnancy (TOP) for hearing status. Participants were self‐selected from the whole of the UK, of whom 644 were deaf, 143 were hard of hearing or deafened, and 527 were hearing individuals who had either a deaf parent or child. The results showed that 21% of deaf, 39% of hard of hearing and deafened, and 49% of hearing participants said they would consider PND for deafness. Six percent of deaf, 11% of hard of hearing and deafened, and 16% of hearing participants said they would consider a TOP if the fetus was found to be deaf. Two percent of deaf participants said they would prefer to have deaf children and would consider a TOP if the fetus was found to be hearing.
Genetic Counseling for Fragile X Syndrome: Recommendations of the National Society of Genetic Counselors
Authors: McIntosh Nathalie , Gane Louise W. , McConkie‐Rosell Allyn , Bennett Robin L.
Published: December 2002

The National Society of Genetic Counselors' (NSGC) recommendations for fragile X syndrome (FXS) genetic counseling are intended to assist health care professionals who provide genetic counseling for individuals and families in whom the diagnosis of FXS is strongly suspected or has been made. The recommendations are the opinions of genetic counselors with expertise in FXS counseling and are based on clinical experience, a review of pertinent English language medical articles, and reports of expert committees. These recommendations should not be construed as dictating an exclusive course of management, nor does use of such recommendations guarantee a particular outcome. These recommendations do not displace a health care provider's professional judgment based on the clinical circumstances of a particular client.
Symptom structure of PTSD following breast cancer
Authors: Cordova Matthew J. , Studts Jamie L. , Hann Danette M. , Jacobsen Paul B. , Andrykowski Michael A.
Published: December 2002

Identification of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms and diagnoses in survivors of cancer is a growing area of research, but no published data exist regarding the symptom structure of PTSD in survivors of malignant disease. Findings from investigations of the PTSD symptom structure in other trauma populations have been inconsistent and have not been concordant with the reexperiencing, avoidance/numbing, and arousal symptom clusters specified in DSM‐IV. The present study employed confirmatory factor analysis to evaluate the extent to which the implied second‐order factor structure of PTSD was replicated in a sample of 142 breast cancer survivors. PTSD symptoms were measured using the PTSD Checklist—Civilian Version (PCL‐C). Fit indices reflected a moderate fit of the symptom structure implied by the DSM‐IV. These findings provide some tentative support for the DSM‐IV clustering of PTSD symptoms and for the validity of cancer‐related PTSD.
Dimensional analysis of the impact of event scale using structural equation modeling
Authors: Larsson Gerry
Published: December 2002

The dimensionality of the Impact of Event Scale (IES) wax analyzed using structural equation modeling (SEM). Responses from 321 individuals (62% response) who had experienced a mass murder of seven people 8 months earlier were obtained. A model with a general factor and three subordinate specific factors—Intrusiveness, Avoidance, and Sleep Disturbance—was developed. Scores on the original IES subscales and the SEM factors were related to scores on the General Health Questionnaire. It was concluded that the original subscales could, to a certain degree, be regarded as a reflection of negative affectivity. A more differentiated pattern emerged using the specific latent variables from the SEM analysis.
Predictors of emotional numbing, revisited: A replication and extension
Authors: Flack William F. , Litz Brett T. , Hsieh Frank Y. , Kaloupek Danny G. , Keane Terence M.
Published: December 2002

Litz et al. (1997), theorizing that emotional numbing (EN) is the result of emotional depletion caused by chronic hyperarousal, demonstrated that a cluster of hyperarousal symptoms was a robust predictor of EN symptoms. In the present study, these findings were replicated and extended in two multiple regression analyses of data from a large, multisite investigation (T. M. Keane et al., 1998) of psychophysiological responding by male combat veterans. The arousal (D) cluster of symptoms was again the most robust predictor of EN symptoms, whereas physiological indices of arousal and reactivity accounted for negligible amounts of variance in both regression equations. These findings underscore the possible link between disturbances related to arousal and the capacity of traumatized individuals to express and experience pleasant feelings.
Sex differences in symptoms of posttraumatic stress: Does culture play a role?
Authors: Norris Fran H. , Perilla Julia L. , Ibañez Gladys E. , Murphy Arthur D.
Published: December 2002

If gender differences in posttraumatic stress disorder follow from culturally‐defined roles and rules, they should be greater in societies that foster traditional views of masculinity and femininity than in societies that adhere to these traditions less rigidly. Data were collected 6 months after Hurricanes Paulina (Acapulco; N = 200) and Andrew (Miami; White n = 135; Black n = 135). In regression analyses predicting scores on the Revised Civilian Mississippi Scale, Sex × Cultural Group interactions emerged for the total scale and for subscales of Intrusion, Avoidance, and Remorse. Only a sex main effect (women higher) emerged for Arousal. Overall, the results indicated that Mexican culture amplified, whereas African American culture attenuated, differences in the posttraumatic stress of male and female disaster victims.
An assessment of gender differences in the perception of benefit resulting from the loss of a child
Authors: Polatinsky Stefan , Esprey Yvette
Published: December 2002

The current study focused on a sample of adults (N = 67) experiencing bereavement following the loss of a child. The Post Traumatic Growth Inventory (PTGI) was used to assess whether bereaved parents were able to perceive benefit from their trauma, and whether there were gender differences in perception of benefit. The impact of the following variables on the PTGI was also assessed: the nature and length of time since the loss, and the age and marital status of the bereaved. The results indicated that bereaved parents do perceive benefit from their loss. However, there was poor evidence to suggest perception of benefit along gender lines. Results also indicated a potential relation between greater perception of benefit and those bereaved through illness, and more perception of benefit for the longer the time elapsed since the bereavement. Lastly, there was a tendency for younger individuals and married respondents to obtain higher scores on the PTGI.
Attitudes Toward Genetic Counseling and Prenatal Diagnosis Among a Group of Individuals with Physical Disabilities
Authors: Chen Elizabeth A. , Schiffman Judith F.
Published: December 2002

Few studies have been published on the attitudes of people with physical disabilities toward genetic counseling and prenatal diagnosis. Articles in the lay press and social science literature on this topic, mainly written by disability rights activists and advocates, imply opposition to prenatal diagnosis and the field of clinical genetics by the physically disabled population. In this study, 15 adults with physical disabilities were interviewed regarding their attitudes toward genetic counseling and prenatal diagnosis. Genetic counseling and prenatal diagnosis were generally viewed favorably by this sample of the disability community. Only a small percentage of the sample perceived genetics to be eugenic. Implications for genetic counseling and future research are discussed.
How Do Geneticists and Genetic Counselors Counsel Women from High‐Risk Breast Cancer Families?
Authors: Lobb Elizabeth , Butow Phyllis , Meiser Bettina , Tucker Katherine , Barratt Alexandra
Published: December 2002

This qualitative study asked Australian Genetic Counselors and Clinical Geneticists working in cancer genetics to describe their practice when a woman attends a consultation about her family history and her risk of developing breast cancer. Twenty‐nine out of 36 Clinical Geneticists/Genetic Counselors returned the questionnaire (82%). Participants identified the key goals of the consultation as (a) identifying the individual needs and concerns of the woman, (b) providing information on genes and chromosomes, (c) giving an individual risk assessment in the context of supportive interaction, and (d) discussing the pros and cons of genetic testing and putting a surveillance plan into place. Respondents emphasized the dual importance of counseling/support and information provision in this setting, suggesting that one could not be given without the other. Implications for clinical practice are discussed.
A Leader‐Led Supervision Group as a Model for Practicing Genetic Counselors
Authors: Kennedy Annette L.
Published: December 2002

With the stage set by the overview of supervision models in the previous paper, thispaper now presents the development and evolution of a currently ongoing leader‐ledsupervision group for experienced genetic counselors. I discuss the procedures forgetting started; the creation and maintenance of the contract; typical issues and themesconsidered; the format for case presentation; and the overall growth of the group and itsmembers.
Parents' Experiences with Genetic Counseling After the Birth of a Baby with a Genetic Disorder: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Collins Veronica , Halliday Jane , Kahler Stephen , Williamson Robert
Published: December 2002

Little is known about factors determining which families utilize genetic counseling services. We conducted semistructured interviews with parents of four children born with cystic fibrosis (CF) and ten with Down's syndrome (DS) to ascertain reasons for using, or not using, genetic counseling services in the state of Victoria, Australia. We also explored the usefulness of genetic counseling for the families who had experienced it, and the perceived role of genetic counseling. All mothers of children with CF see a genetic counselor as part of a structured education program following diagnosis through newborn screening. Information overload was identified by them as an important problem. There is no specific program for families of children with DS. Six of them had received genetic counseling and four had not, either because it was not specifically offered to them or because they did not pursue it in the context of misconceptions about its purpose. The timing of the offer of genetic counseling is important and needs to take into account parents' coping strategies after diagnosis. Several parents commented on the favorable aspects of counseling, including getting information they needed to deal with the diagnosis and relief of guilt. Better awareness of genetic counseling by referring physicians, and providing counseling at more than one visit, may contribute to a more effective service.
Caring for the Care‐Giver: The Benefit of a Peer Supervision Group
Authors: Bosco Amy Foster
Published: December 2002

I presented the following case to my leader‐led peer supervisiongroup twice as the case evolved over the course of one year. During my firstmeetings with Mr. and Mrs. M we discussed a prenatal diagnosis of a skeletaldysplasia at thirty‐three weeks of pregnancy and the option of a third trimesterpregnancy termination. One year later I presented follow‐up on the outcome ofthe affected pregnancy, a new pregnancy, and Mrs. M's suicide. Although bothsegments of the case were completed by the time I presented, my peersupervision group was invaluable. With the encouragement and support of groupmembers, I could openly express and process my sadness and grief for the M'ssituation and the loss of Mrs. M's life.
A Method for Analyzing Videotaped Genetic Counseling Sessions
Authors: Liede Alexander , Kerzin‐Storrar Lauren , Craufurd David
Published: December 2002

This study describes the development and evaluation of a multi‐item scale for analyzing the genetic counseling process, the Manchester Observation Code (MOC) for genetic counseling. The instrument is specific to the field of genetic counseling and is designed for analysis of the communication between counselor and client. Coding is done directly from videotaped sessions. Because communication is the means by which genetic counseling is accomplished, the method measures four relevant components of communication: (1) grammatical form, (2) purpose, (3) subject, and (4) cue source. The instrument enables an observer to code the counselor's statements into these four components. Three videotaped sessions were used to measure interrater reliability, or the consistency of rating for each of the four communication domains using this method. Three videotaped sessions were also used to measure test‐retest reliability, or the consistency of the designed method from one time to another. A total of 21 videotaped sessions were tested using the method. A statistical measure of reliability established consistency of the designed method; Cohen's kappa yielded 0.7 for interrater reliability and 0.79 for test‐retest reliability. These findings suggest this instrument may be used to identify important elements of the genetic counseling process.
The Psychological Burden Inflicted By Multiple Cancers in Li‐Fraumeni Families: Five Case Studies
Authors: Oppenheim Daniel , Brugieres Laurence , Chompret Agnes , Hartmann Olivier
Published: December 2002

To gain insight into the psychological, emotional, relational, and family problems of families afflicted by Li‐Fraumeni syndrome, we interviewed members of five such families in the Pediatric Oncology Department, Gustave Roussy Institute, where at least one member of the family had been treated. These interviews showed that families were psychologically fragile, that their interactions and thinking patterns were related to a family background plagued by the repeated occurrence of cancer, and was often marked by physical or psychological violence. They had complex imaginary etiologic explanations, and showed an ambivalent willingness to learn about cancer and the risks involved. They expressed their fear of transmitting doom and death, posed questions about whether their parents would have had them had they known the test result, and about what their own attitude would be toward childbearing. Thus genetic testing awoke disconcerting and unsolved questions for them. These first results can contribute to the design of supportive interventions and future clinical research.
Relationships among trauma exposure, chronic posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms, and self‐reported health in women: Replication and extension
Authors: Kimerling Rachel , Clum Gretchen A. , Wolfe Jessica
Published: December 2002

Fifty‐two women who served during the Vietnam era were assessed for war‐zone exposure, traumatic life events, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and self‐reported health status. Symptoms of PTSD were examined as mediators in the relationship between traumatic exposure and subsequent reports of health problems. Results showed that PTSD symptoms accounted significantly for variance in health problems reported by women with prior traumatic stressor exposure. When the cardinal symptom domains of PTSD (reexperiencing, numbing, avoidance, hyperarousal) were analyzed separately, the symptom cluster representing hyperarousal accounted uniquely for the variance associated with health complaints, beyond that contributed by other symptom clusters. Discussion of the results focuses on mechanisms underlying the relationship between specific symptoms of PTSD and self‐reported health. Implications for intervention within the medical system are also considered.
Dimensionality and reliability of the Civilian Mississippi Scale for PTSD in a postearthquake community
Authors: Inkelas Moira , Loux Laurie A. , Bourque Linda B. , Widawski Mel , Nguyen Loc H.
Published: December 2002

This study examines psychometric properties of the Civilian Mississippi Scale for posttraumatic stress disorder when administered in a community survey of 656 persons following the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake. Internal consistency was lower (Cronbach's α = .73) than for previous analyses of civilian and combat versions of the Mississippi Scale. The analysis produced one strong factor composed of 25 items with regular wording and a second, weaker factor composed of 10 items with reversed wording. Internal consistency was higher when the 10 reversed items were removed (Cronbach's α = .86); the two factors were negatively correlated. Traumatic experiences and psychological distress measures explained more variance in the 25‐item factor than in the 35‐item scale. Further studies should focus on content analysis and performance of the reversed items.
Psychosocial resource loss as a mediator of the effects of flood exposure on psychological distress and physical symptoms
Authors: Smith Bruce W. , Freedy John R.
Published: December 2002

This study used the Conservation of Resources stress model to examine the role of psychosocial resource loss in the aftermath of Midwest flooding. Questionnaires were distributed through churches and completed by 131 adults in flood‐affected communities 6 weeks and 6 months after the flood's crest. Frequent psychosocial losses included losses of routine, sense of control, sense of optimism, accomplishing goals, and lime with loved ones. Path analysis revealed that psychosocial resource loss mediated the effects of flood exposure on both psychological distress and physical symptoms at 6 months postflood. The findings suggest that interventions designed to prevent psychosocial resource loss may reduce the long‐term effects of disasters.
Olfactory identification in combat‐related posttraumatic stress disorder
Authors: Vasterling Jennifer J. , Brailey Kevin , Sutker Patricia B.
Published: December 2002

Recent neuropsychological conceptualizations of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) implicate dysfunction of the fronto‐limbic system, a brain system thought to be involved in the mediation of emotion. However, few studies have examined fronto‐limbic subregions, such as the orbitofrontal cortex, in PTSD. As a measure of orbitofrontal integrity, olfactory identification was assessed in 26 Vietnam War veterans with PTSD, 25 Vietnam War veterans without mental disorders, and 17 Vietnam‐era, non‐war‐zone veterans without mental disorders. Relative to veterans without PTSD, those diagnosed with PTSD were less proficient in odor identification and verbal learning but not on other cognitive tests sensitive to dorsolateral prefrontal and mesial temporal functioning. Results bolster prior research indicating fronto‐limbic dysfunction in PTSD, and suggest involvement of the orbitofrontal region.
What parts of PTSD are normal: Intrusion, avoidance, or arousal? Data from the Northridge, California, earthquake
Authors: McMillen J. Curtis , North Carol S. , Smith Elizabeth M.
Published: December 2002

The incidence and comorbidity of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are addressed in a study of 130 Northridge, California, earthquake survivors interviewed 3 months postdisaster. Only 13% of the sample met full PTSD criteria, but 48% met both the reexperiencing and the arousal symptom criteria, without meeting the avoidance and numbing symptom criterion. Psychiatric comorbidity was associated mostly with avoidance and numbing symptoms. For moderately severe traumatic events, reexperiencing and arousal symptoms may be the most “normal,” and survivors with a history of psychiatric problems may be those most likely to develop full PTSD. A system that considers people who meet all three symptom criteria to have a psychiatric disorder yet recognizes the distress of other symptomatic survivors may best serve traumatized populations.
An examination of bias in volunteer subject selection: Findings from an in‐depth child abuse study
Authors: Mandel Francine S. , Weiner Merrill , Kaplan Sandra , Pelcovitz David , Labruna Victor
Published: December 2002

Remarkably few reported studies tested the assumption that a research sample can be constructed which is representative of the population of interest. In order to investigate potential volunteer bias in abuse research, we utilized a database assembled for an NIMH funded study investigating the relationship among adolescent physical abuse, suicidal behavior, and psychopathology. Extensive information was available concerning the nonparticipant pool from which this sample was assembled, allowing for a comprehensive assessment of possible sample bias. The volunteer sample of 99 abused families who agreed to participate in our study was compared on a large number of variables with a random sample of 99 abused families who declined to participate. Comparisons of the two groups did not support the hypothesis that the non‐participating families represented a more dysfunctional population. The two groups were far more similar to, than disparate from, each other.
Psychometric evaluation of Horowitz's impact of event scale: A review
Authors: Joseph Stephen
Published: December 2002

Despite being developed before the formal introduction of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) within the diagnostic literature, the Impact of Event Scale (Horowitz, Wilner, & Alvarez, 1979) remains one of the most widely used self‐report measures of posttraumatic stress. This paper presents an overview of research using the IES in an attempt to assess its psychometric status. It is concluded that the psychometric properties of the IES are satisfactory (although not as a PTSD diagnostic measure) and that continued use of the IES as a measure of intrusive and avoidant processes is warranted.
Dreams in the acute aftermath of trauma and their relationship to PTSD
Authors: Mellman Thomas A. , David Daniella , Bustamante Victoria , Torres Joseph , Fins Ana
Published: December 2002

Dreams following trauma have been suggested to aid emotional adaptation, yet trauma‐related nightmares are a diagnostic symptom of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). There is little published data relating dreams to PTSD soon after trauma. We assessed dreams and PTSD in 60 injured patients after life‐threatening events and obtained follow‐up assessments in 39 of these participants 6 weeks later. Ten of 21 dream reports from morning diaries were rated and described as similar to the recent traumatic event. The participants reporting these distressing “trauma dreams” had more severe concurrent PTSD symptoms than those reporting other categories of dreams and had more severe initial and follow‐up PTSD than those without dream recall. These findings along with our preliminary longitudinal observations relating changes in dream patterns to outcome, suggest a relationship of dream characteristics and early adaptive versus maladaptive patterns of processing traumatic memory.