Determinants of Negative and Positive Consequences of Indirect Exposure to Trauma in Polish Nuns Caring for Disabled People: The Role of Spirituality and Optimistic Life Attitude.

Professionals working with people after traumatic experiences are indirectly exposed to the consequences of trauma. The aim of the study was to establish the role of spirituality and optimism in the occurrence of secondary traumatic stress and growth among 104 Polish Catholic nuns caring for people with a disability. The study used 4 standard measurement tools. A multidimensional analysis identified four types of consequences. Nuns caring for people with disabilities are as vulnerable to secondary traumatization as other professionals working with traumatized people, but they are more likely to experience positive consequences of care, and this is thanks to their spirituality.

Psychometric properties of the Polish version of the Post-traumatic Stress Disorder Check List according to DSM-5 - PCL-5. / Wlasciwosci psychometryczne polskiej wersji Listy Zaburzen po Stresie Traumatycznym wedlug DSM-5 ­ PCL-5.

OBJECTIVES: The changes in the structure of PTSD symptoms introduced in the DSM-5 classification require the use of an appropriate measurement tool. For this purpose, the PTSD Checklist (PCL-5) was constructed and popularized. In the presented studies, the psychometric properties of the Polish version of PCL-5 were assessed. In addition, referring to the controversy regarding the conceptualization of PTSD, various indicators of the fit of five PTSD structure models were checked based on our own research. METHODS: People (N = 1035) who experienced various traumatic events participated in the anonymous research. All completed PCL-5 and another questionnaires used to assess the validity of PCl-5. RESULTS: The psychometric properties of the Polish version of PCL-5 are satisfactory. In the differential diagnosis the optimal point of discrimination is the result of ⩾ 33. The CFA results showed that all tested PTSD models met the basic fit criteria. The four-factor model explained 58% of the variance, including changes in arousal and reactivity of 36%. CONCLUSIONS: PCL-5 is a reliable and accurate tool for PTSD measurement. It is used for the initial diagnosis of PTSD. The conducted analyzes, despite demonstrating the diagnostical utility of PCL-5, do not indicate ultimately favor a single PTSD dimensionality model.

From negative to positive effects of secondary exposure to trauma - the mediating role of cognitive coping strategies.

BACKGROUND: Professionals working with trauma victims can experience both negative and positive effects following exposure to secondary trauma. The aim of the study was to determine the relationship between secondary traumatic stress (STS), secondary posttraumatic growth (SPTG) and cognitive coping strategies and to establish the mediating role of cognitive coping strategies in the relationship between STS and SPTG. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A group of 500 professionals working with trauma survivors were surveyed. The Secondary Traumatic Stress Inventory, the Secondary Posttraumatic Growth Inventory and the Cognitive Processing of Trauma Scale was used. RESULTS: The results indicated that 29% of professionals demonstrate a high intensity of STS, and nearly 34% exhibit a high level of SPTG. Denial and regret were positively correlated with STS; positive cognitive restructuring, resolution/acceptance and downward comparison were positively related to SPTG. Two cognitive coping strategies, i.e., positive cognitive restructuring and downward comparison, were found to act as mediators in the relationship between STS and SPTG. CONCLUSIONS: Understanding the effects of secondary exposure to trauma and the coping responses of professionals working with trauma survivors will support the development of prevention and intervention actions aimed at protecting them from the deleterious impact of exposure to secondary trauma at work and promoting secondary posttraumatic growth. Med Pr Work Health Saf. 2023;74(6):449-60.

Determinants of the Negative Consequences of Secondary Exposure to Trauma in Caregivers of Holocaust Survivors Living in Poland.

The aim of the present study, involving 50 caregivers of Holocaust survivors, was to determine the degree of exposure to secondary traumatic stress (STS) and identify the mechanisms of its development. Several standardized measurement tools were used. It was found that a probable diagnosis of STS could be ascertained in 44% of caregivers. The multiple regression analyses model explains 72% of the total variance of STS. The strongest predictor, explaining 37% of the variability, turned out to be disruptions in beliefs about the meaning of life, spirituality and self-worth as a person. In order to reduce STS symptoms in caregivers, attention should be paid primarily to their cognitive functioning, including possible disruptions in basic beliefs.

Ruminations as predictors of post-traumatic stress disorder after hospitalization for Covid-19. / Ruminacje jako wyznaczniki zespolu stresu pourazowego po hospitalizacji z powodu Covid-19.

OBJECTIVES: The most widely-reported problems among people who have been hospitalized for COVID-19 are those associated with mental health. The aim of the study was to determine the incidence of PTSD in patients hospitalized due to Covid-19 and to determine predictors of the risk of its occurrence. METHODS: The study group included 250 people after hospitalization due to Covid-19. Several standardized measurement tools were used: the PCL-5, PSS-10, ERRI, SPP-15 and PANAS. RESULTS: Overall, 55.6% of respondents qualified for a diagnosis of PTSD. These were mostly people hospitalized for more than two weeks, with a more severe course of the disease, examined within three months after hospitalization. The regression model includes factors related to the course of treatment and psychological variables: some increase the risk of PTSD, i.e. perceived stress, ruminations and negative emotions, while others are protective factors, i.e. resilience, and positive emotions. Overall, the regression model explains 72% of the total variance. Intrusive ruminations, explaining 59% of the variance, appeared the most significant for predicting PTSD. CONCLUSIONS: As patients diagnosed with PTSD require therapeutic assistance, it is essential to identify both risk and protective factors as these may be helpful in improving the therapy process and facilitating preventive activities.

The Mediating Role of Cognitive Trauma Processing in the Relationship Between Empathy and Secondary Traumatic Stress Symptoms Among Female Professionals Working With Victims of Violence.

One of the negative consequences of indirect trauma exposure is secondary traumatic stress (STS). Professionals helping victims of violence may be at the risk of STS symptoms development. Both empathy and cognitive processing of trauma seem to be important in this process. The aim of the study was to examine the relationship between empathy, cognitive processing of trauma and symptoms of STS in women working with people who have experienced violence trauma. The mediation role of cognitive coping strategies in the relationship between empathy and STS was also checked. A total of 154 female professionals representing three groups (therapists, social workers, and probation officers) were included in the study. The age of the respondents ranged from 26 to 67 years (M = 43.98, SD = 10.83). Three standard measurement tools were included in the study: the modified PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5), the Empathic Sensitivity Scale, and the Cognitive Processing of Trauma Scale. Correlational analysis indicated STS to have positive associations (Pearson's correlation coefficients) with all three aspects of empathy, and three of the five cognitive coping strategies (denial, regret, downward comparison). Mediation analysis performed by the bootstrapping method found strategies of regret and downward comparison to act as mediators in the relationship between STS and empathic concern. The same results were obtained for perspective taking. In addition, the regret and denial strategies mediated the relationship between personal distress and STS. Empathy and cognitive trauma processing may play an important role in STS symptoms development. Preventive programs for professionals helping trauma victims should focus on cognitive processing of trauma and empathy.

Empathy and Cognitive Processing as Factors Determining the Consequences of Secondary Exposure to Trauma Among Roman Catholic Clergymen.

By helping individuals after traumatic experiences, the helper is also exposed to the consequences of trauma. The aim of this study was to determine the predictors of consequences of secondary exposure to trauma among clergymen and therapists (N = 140) helping victims of trauma in Poland. Symptoms of secondary traumatic stress (STS) were identified in 22.9% of the clergymen and 8.6% of therapists, and secondary posttraumatic growth (SPTG) in 61.4% of the clergymen and 42.9% of therapists. STS and SPTG predictors were identified based on regression models. In the case of clergymen, regret is a determinant of STS, and positive cognitive restructuring of SPTG. Research findings highlight the need to increase awareness of exposure to secondary trauma among the clergy, and for them to acquire greater skills for coping with stress.

Ruminations and occupational stress as predictors of post-traumatic stress disorder and burnout among police officers.

The profession of policeman is one of the most stressful. It is associated with exposure to traumatic experiences. This research study aimed to determine the predictors of symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and occupational burnout and to examine how they correlated in policemen. We searched for these predictors in cognitive activity, and specifically in ruminations and perceived job stress. The study was conducted with 120 police officers who have experienced traumatic events related to their job. The study showed that intrusive ruminations serve as a predictor that intensifies PTSD, while certain stressful work conditions are predictors of burnout. The results suggest that numerous mechanisms are at play in the pathogenesis of PTSD and burnout. Police officers cope much better with exposure to traumatic stressors than with stressful work conditions. This leads to a practical conclusion regarding the necessity of preventing the everyday job stress experienced by police officers.

Burnout and posttraumatic stress symptoms in police officers exposed to traumatic events: the mediating role of ruminations.

PURPOSE: Police work carries the risk of burnout in the form of exhaustion and disengagement from work. Police officers are also exposed to traumatic events and the development of PTSD. The main aim of the cross-sectional study was to determine the mediating role played by rumination in the relationship between burnout and PTSD among police officers. It also examines whether burnout is a significant prognostic factor for PTSD symptoms. METHODS: Data were obtained from a sample of 120 police officers. Of these one hundred, mostly men (83%), aged 23-47 years (M = 33.06, SD = 5.61), confirmed the experience of traumatic events in connection with their professional work. Three standard measuring tools were used: The Posttraumatic Checklist for DSM-5, The Oldenburg Burnout Inventory OBI, and The Event-Related Rumination Inventory. RESULTS: The introduction of intrusive ruminating as an intermediary variable made the relationship between job burnout and PTSD non-significant, which indicates full mediation. The introduction of deliberate rumination as a mediator weakens the relationship between burnout and PTSD, which indicates partial mediation. It indicates that police officers who are burnout and who additionally tend to ruminate about experienced traumatic events are more likely to PTSD than police officers who are only burned out. CONCLUSION: Intervention programs for police officers should focus on strengthening stress management resources in the form of developing deliberate ruminations, thus allowing the experienced situations to be given a new meaning and to allow better coping.

[Ruminations as predictors of negative and positive effects of experienced traumatic events in medical rescue workers]. / Ruminacje jako wyznaczniki negatywnych i pozytywnych konsekwencji doswiadczonych zdarzen traumatycznych u ratowników medycznych.

BACKGROUND: Emergency service workers are exposed to experienced traumatic events related to the nature of their work. The study aimed at identifying the role of cognitive processes, namely different forms of ruminations, as predictors of consequences of experienced trauma. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The data on 120 medical rescuers (80 men, 40 women) who had experienced in their worksite at least 1 traumatic event in the last 5 years, were analyzed. The age of the participants ranged from 25 to 61 years (mean (M) = 38.07; standard deviation (SD) = 8.92). The following Polish versions of standardized tools were used: the Impact of Event Scale - Revised (IES-R), the Posttraumatic Growth Inventory (PTGI) and the Event Related Rumination Inventory (ERRI). RESULTS: The results of regression analyses indicated 2 significant predictors, intrusive rumination for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and deliberate rumination for posttraumatic growth (PTG). CONCLUSIONS: Ruminations play an essential role in the occurrence of negative and positive outcomes of experienced trauma. The associations between PTSD and PTG, with different forms of ruminations, may be used in therapy, treating the appearance of intrusive rumination as an opportunity to turn towards active engagement in deliberate rumination, that facilitates the occurrence of posttraumatic growth. Med Pr 2016;67(2):201-211.

Health-related quality of life in psoriasis: important role of personal resources.

Many patients with psoriasis demonstrate psychological disturbances, including decreased health-related quality of life (HRQoL). The aim of this study was to evaluate selected personal resources and HRQoL in 168 in-patients with psoriasis vulgaris. The following questionnaires were used: Skindex-29, General Health Questionnaire, Coping with Skin Disease Scale, Acceptance of Illness Scale, Life Orientation Test, Multidimensional Health Locus of Control Scale and General Self-Efficacy Scale. It was demonstrated that younger patients experienced fewer problems in psychosocial functioning, and that they showed a correlation between worse HRQoL and both external powerful others and external chance domains in locus of health control. Subjective self-evaluation of health correlated with HRQoL irrespective of patient's age. Coping with stress strategies hopelessness/helplessness and distraction/catastrophization correlated with worse overall HRQoL, whereas fighting spirit strategy correlated with better overall HRQoL. Hopelessness/helplessness coping strategy, somatic symptoms, disease acceptance, psoriasis severity and patient's age explained 61% of overall HRQoL variance. Psychomedical interventions designed for psoriatic patients should take into account the above variables.

[Quality of life predictors among patients suffering from systemic lupus erythematosus]. / Wyznaczniki jakosci zycia chorych na toczen rumieniowaty ukladowy.

Researches on quality of life have been undertaken from dozens of years. However, there are few information about quality of life among people suffering from systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The aim of this study was to set predictors making possible quality of life anticipation. The participants of the studied group were 42 patients with inactive illness stage (disease severity were estimated by SLAM scale). Quality of life was measured by own questionnaire. Personal resources, which are the base of anticipation, were estimated by standardized tests (AIS, LOT, GSES). The results indicated that two of examined variables became the quality of predictors: helpless/hopeless strategy and illness acceptation.

[Personal and social resources enhancing coping in caregivers of major depression family members]. / Zasoby osobiste i spoleczne sprzyjajace radzeniu sobie opiekunów z depresja czlonka rodziny.

AIM: The aim of our study was to determine the relationship between personal and social resources and coping strategies with illness of family members with major depression in caregivers. METHOD: 40 caregivers (16 men, 24 women) of patients (25 spouse, 15 parents) recruited during their in-patient psychiatric stay completed 4 self-report instruments (Mini-MAC, SOZ-U K-22, STV, LOT-R). The structural equation model (SEPATH) includes four latent exogenous constructs (Patient, Caregiver, Personal and Social support) measured by observed variables and two endogenous latent constructs (Active and Destructive Coping Strategies) loading by strategies: fighting spirit, positive reinterpretation, anxious preoccupation and helplessness-hopelessness. Overall, the model fits well. RESULT AND CONCLUSION: The results of the study indicate, that a high level of dispositional optimism and perceived emotional support play a causal role in use of active coping strategies with illness of family members.