Date of Submission
2015
Degree Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Psychology (PsyD)
Department
Psychology
Department Chair
Robert A DiTomasso, PhD, ABPP, Chair, Department of Psychology
First Advisor
Beverly White, PsyD, Chair
Second Advisor
Robert A DiTomasso, PhD, ABPP
Third Advisor
Elizabeth Hembree, PhD
Abstract
Theory and research suggest that post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms may disrupt intimate relationships of survivors of trauma. Nevertheless, little empirical research has examined the role of PTSD and how it affects intimate relationships of survivors of sexual assault. This study utilized selected measures to examine the degree to which symptoms and treatment(s) for PTSD contribute to relationship satisfaction in female survivors of sexual assault. Overall, the severity of PTSD predicted relationship maladjustment at baseline, which is consistent with past research findings. More specifically, avoidance and arousal were found to be the most robust predictors of relationship maladjustment. This study also revealed that improved self-reported symptoms of PTSD contributed to improved self-report relationship adjustment. Lastly, this study found that regardless of type, the quality of relationships improved over time with PTSD treatment.
Recommended Citation
Rhoads, Gabrielle, "Post Traumatic Stress Disorder Symptoms and Intimate Relationships of Female Survivors of Sexual Assault: The Effects of Treatment with Prolonged Exposure, Group, and Supportive Counseling Therapy" (2015). PCOM Psychology Dissertations. 353.
https://digitalcommons.pcom.edu/psychology_dissertations/353
Included in
Clinical Psychology Commons, Counseling Psychology Commons, Domestic and Intimate Partner Violence Commons