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Abstract
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The aim of the study was to assess the influence and intensity of factors responsible for emergence of PTSD symptoms among the victims of domestic violence, especially sexual. Study group consisted of 110 women, in the age between 18 and 65; 51 of them have exhibited symptoms and increased symptomatic presence of PTSD.
Methods
Posttraumatic Stress Diagnostic Scale (PDS) questionnaire was used.
Results
No less than 88.1% of studied women have demonstrated a moderate increase of PTSD symptoms. A clear correlation was discovered between the intensity of PTSD and the length of the relationship with the perpetrator. Significant increase in PTSD symptoms was shown among victims of sexual violence. In particular, PTSD symptoms from the avoidance group were significantly more apparent among women, who have suffered sexual abuse from their partners. In contrast to those who were victims of domestic violence not sexual in nature, the women who experienced sexual violence from their partners have displayed noteworthy increase in the occurrence of PTSD symptoms, especially in the sphere of emotional numbness, incapability to love and weep, and hopelessness to ever achieve life goals. More than the average, they have revealed a physical reaction to the memory of violent sexual abuse, as well as exhibited remoteness and detachment from the society.
Conclusions
PTSD symptoms from the avoidance group were most associated with the sexual violence. Victims of this type of violence have experienced emotional numbness and hopelessness in relation to their future in particular. |