The Socio-Cultural Environment and the Posttraumatic Stress Response: Examining the Associations between Culture, Self-Construal, Social Relationships, Cognitive Appraisal, Coping Strategies and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder

Abstract

This thesis examines the influence of culture on the relationship between social support and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). A review considers the intersections, theoretical, and clinical implications, of integrating these fields. Empirical research found that for highly interdependent people, greater social support reduced the impact of trauma on PTSD symptoms. An indirect relationship between social support and PTSD symptoms, through negative cognitive appraisals and maladaptive coping strategies was found. Through exploring the impact of culture, maladaptive thinking and coping, on the association between social support and PTSD, we can better understand the processes through which social support influences PTSD symptoms.