The association between trauma exposure and quasi-psychotic experiences in a large community-based sample

Abstract

Background: Surveys have found that otherwise-well individuals report quasi-psychotic experiences (QPE). Previous studies have shown an association between psychotic symptoms and exposure to trauma. Aim: To explore the association between trauma and QPE in a community sample. Method: Respondents (n10,641) were assessed for QPE, exposure to various types of traumatic experiences, and the presence of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The endorsement of QPE items was examined in subjects exposed to traumatic events with and without PTSD. Results: Exposure to any traumatic event was associated with increased endorsement of QPE (Relative Risk2.68; 95%CI 2.18 3.30), and there was a significant dose-response relationship between the number of types of traumatic events and endorsement of QPE (X226.74, df2, pB.001). A diagnosis of PTSD further increased endorsement of QPE (Relative Risk9.24; 95% CI 6.9512.27). The association between PTSD and QPE remained significant after adjusting for factors associated with psychotic symptoms. Conclusions: Further investigation into the pathways between trauma, QPE and psychosis may provide insights into shared etiological mechanisms underpinning these conditions.