Posttraumatic stress disorder symptomatology among partners of men in treatment for relationship abuse.
This longitudinal study examined posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms among current and former female partners (N = 96) of men participating in a group treatment program for partner abuse perpetrators. Female partner probable PTSD rates, obtained during time points corresponding with pretreatment, posttreatment, and 6-month follow-up for the male clients, were 52%, 34%, and 29%, respectively. Psychological abuse exposure was more strongly and uniquely associated with PTSD symptoms than was physical abuse exposure. Among psychological abuse ratings, denigration, restrictive engulfment, and dominance/intimidation behaviors evidenced the strongest associations with PTSD symptoms. Findings from this study suggest the association between psychological abuse and PTSD is complex and multidetermined.
Taft
Casey T
CT
National Center for PTSD, Veterans Affairs Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA 02130, USA. casey.taft@med.va.gov
Murphy
Christopher M
CM
King
Lynda A
LA
Dedeyn
Judith M
JM
Musser
Peter H
PH
D017579:Domestic Violence / Q000523:psychology / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D008137:Longitudinal Studies; D008297:Male; D012737:Sex Factors; D013179:Spouse Abuse / Q000523:psychology / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D013313:Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000523:psychology