Strive for balance: Deviation from a balanced time perspective mediates the relationship between lifetime trauma exposure and PTSD symptoms

Abstract

Researchers have documented that exposure to traumatic events has negative effects on both physical and mental health. Much less research has examined mechanisms that may explain the link between traumatic experiences and adverse outcomes, such as posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The current study examined direct and mediated links between lifetime trauma exposure and PTSD symptoms, with deviation from a balanced time perspective (individuals’ awareness and integration of past, present, and future time frames) as a potential mediator. Participants were 199 undergraduates (88.4% Caucasian; 82.4% female; mean age 23.90, SD = 8.18) who reported their lifetime trauma exposure, PTSD symptoms, and time perspectives via online surveys. Regression analyses indicated that more deviation from a balanced time perspective (DBTP) partially mediated the path from trauma exposure to PTSD symptoms, such that more lifetime trauma exposure was related to more DBTP, which likely resulted in more PTSD symptoms. Discussion focuses on implications for research and practice, as potential mechanisms may account for the link between trauma exposure and adverse outcomes. The importance of encouraging balanced time perspectives in therapeutic settings is highlighted, particularly for individuals adjusting to challenging life events.