Aggression and trauma experiences among carer-relatives of people with psychosis.
BACKGROUND
Exposure to aggression and associated psychological outcomes are poorly characterised among carer-relatives of people with psychosis.


METHODS
Carer-relatives (N = 106) completed questionnaires assessing socio-demographics and perceived prevalence of aggression in their caring role in the last 12 months. Carers exposed to moderate-severe levels of aggression were re-approached to assess PTSD and coping strategies.


RESULTS
Most respondents (77.4%) reported experiencing moderate-severe levels of aggression. Increased contact with (M = 15.12 vs. M = 6.71 days per month), and significantly higher ratings of affective, antisocial, negative and psychotic symptomology in affected relatives were associated with experiences of moderate-severe aggression. Approximately half of the moderate-severe respondents reported potentially significant levels of PTSD (52%, N = 34), which was associated with greater exposure to verbal aggression and increased usage of coping strategies.


CONCLUSIONS
Comparable ratios of physical to non-physical aggression to those reported by professional carers working in acute psychiatric treatment settings were reported. Carer-relatives require greater levels of information and support to assist them in their community caring roles.
Loughland
Carmel M
CM
Centre for Brain and Mental Health Research, Hunter New England Mental Health, The University of Newcastle, PO Box 833, Newcastle, NSW 2300, Australia. Carmel.Loughland@newcastle.edu.au
Lawrence
Gali
G
Allen
Joanne
J
Hunter
Mick
M
Lewin
Terry J
TJ
Oud
Nico E
NE
Carr
Vaughan J
VJ