The predictive value of post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms for quality of life: a longitudinal study of physically injured victims of non-domestic violence
2007

Impact of PTSD Symptoms on Quality of Life in Violence Victims

Sample size: 70 publication 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Venke A Johansen, Astrid K Wahl, Dag Erik Eilertsen, Lars Weisaeth, Berit R Hanestad

Primary Institution: Faculty of Health Buskerud University College

Hypothesis

The study aims to examine the predictive value of PTSD symptoms for quality of life in victims of non-domestic violence over a period of 12 months.

Conclusion

PTSD symptoms predicted lower quality of life in victims of non-domestic violence both immediately and over time.

Supporting Evidence

  • Individuals with probable PTSD had significantly lower scores on quality of life domains compared to those without PTSD symptoms.
  • PTSD symptoms predicted lower quality of life at all three assessments.
  • Mean levels of quality of life were stable across time for each PTSD category.

Takeaway

If someone has PTSD after a violent event, they are likely to feel worse about their life for a long time.

Methodology

A longitudinal design with three repeated measures over 12 months, assessing PTSD symptoms and quality of life using standardized questionnaires.

Potential Biases

Potential bias due to the higher dropout rates among less symptomatic participants.

Limitations

The study had a small sample size and a high dropout rate, which may affect the generalizability of the results.

Participant Demographics

Participants were primarily male (83%) with an average age of 33 years.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.001

Statistical Significance

p<0.001

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1477-7525-5-26

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