Individual Differences in Catharsis, Emotional Valence, Trauma Anxiety, and Social Networks Among Hurricane Katrina and Rita Victims

Abstract

This study examined individual differences in terms of gender, ethnicity, transfer status, and electronic messaging problems in terms of cell phone and e-mail mediums on emotional valence, catharsis, trauma anxiety, and social network development in the aftermath of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. Transfer and nontransfer students completed an online survey measuring coping and adaptability after the storms. A large sample of 2881 participants completed the survey. Results revealed that transfer students, students with cell phone and e-mail problems, students with a poor social network, and students expressing a negative emotional valence were more likely to report a higher level of trauma anxiety. Students with high levels of trauma anxiety used the catharsis function of imagined interactions as a way to release tension. Basic emotions that predicted trauma anxiety were fear, anger, sadness, and guilt. A combination of sadness and joy predicted catharsis. Implications of the findings and future research directions include providing communication venues that prompt catharsis.