Life is a balancing act: Deviation from a balanced time perspective mediates the relationship between lifetime trauma exposure and optimism

Abstract

Most individuals experience traumatic events at some point in their lifetime, such as accidents, unexpected death of a loved one or violent crime. This study assessed direct and mediated associations between lifetime trauma exposure and less optimism, with deviation from a balanced time perspective (individuals’ perception of time that emphasizes the past, present, and future), as a potential mediator. Participants were 133 undergraduates (mean age = 23.76; 84% females) who completed online surveys assessing lifetime trauma exposure, optimism, and time perspectives. Regression analyses indicated that deviation from a balanced time perspective partially mediated the path from more trauma exposure to less optimism. Overall, more lifetime trauma exposure was related to greater deviation from a balanced time perspective, which likely resulted in less optimism. Discussion centers on implications for research and practice, with an emphasis on the importance of balanced time perspectives, particularly for those adjusting to traumatic events.