Research psychologists often complain that practitioners disregard research evidence whilst practitioners sometimes accuse researchers of failing to produce evidence with sufficient ecological validity. The tension that thus arises is highlighted, using the specific illustrative examples of two treatment methods for post-traumatic disorder (PTSD): Eye-Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) and exposure based interventions. Contextual reasons for the success or failure of particular treatment models that are often only tangentially related to the theoretical underpinnings of the models are discussed. Suggestions regarding what might be learnt from these debates are put forward and implications for future research are discussed.

Previous studies have suggested that mechanisms for neural compensation involve a reorganisation to right hemisphere processing in people with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and are associated with functional alterations in the capacity for behavioural flexibility. However, research has not established a direct relationship between the complex physiological and psychological processes of the heterogeneous disorder and right hemisphere cortical activity. The present study examined cognitive information processing in people with PTSD, reaction patterns associated with perceived traumatic stressors, and quantitative electroencephalographic (qEEG) indices of hemispheric asymmetry. Individuals with PTSD (N=34) and age and sex-matched normal controls (N=136) completed standardised web-based self-report questionnaires assessing traumatic stressor events and reaction patterns to those events. Neuropsychological indices of verbal, visuospatial, sensori-motor performance, and electrophysiological recordings, were examined for right hemisphere coding. The relationships among traumatic characteristic reaction patterns of numbing and avoidance, cognitive performance, and frontal and posterior EEG alpha asymmetry were also investigated. Structural and functional alterations were shown in those with PTSD, using indices of working memory for the retrieval of verbal and psychomotor information, indicating a reduced speed of processing and alterations to background cortical arousal in left hemisphere frontal regions. The study supported and extended previous findings of verbal working memory abnormality, alterations to left frontal cortical rhythmic oscillations, and low EEG alpha amplitudes in those diagnosed with PTSD. Results indicated a pattern of compensatory mechanisms associated with reduced speed of information processing and right-sided activation patterns in PTSD participants and control participants who experienced strong reactions to perceived traumatic events. Findings support the impact of traumatic events on psychobiological health in high-risk populations, implicating an association with specific patterns of neural and cognitive functioning in characteristic numbing and avoidance behaviours. / Thesis (Ph.D.) -- University of Adelaide, School of Population Health and Clinical Practice, 2008

It is well documented that exposure to intimate partner violence (IPV) negatively affects children’s developmental outcomes (Chan & Yeung, 2009; Evans, Davies & DiLillo, 2008) and may lead to the expression of symptomatology consistent with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) (Graham-Bermann, De Voe, Mattis, Lynch & Thomas, 2006; Kilpatrick & Williams,1998). Currently there is no consensus as to the nature of the influence of mother-child relationships on child outcomes such as post-traumatic stress symptoms in IPV-exposed families. The present study examined the role of maternal influences, such as the quality of mother-child interaction, maternal depression, and maternal violence history on sibling trauma outcomes. Results indicated that increased maternal depressive symptoms, maternal violence history, and negative mother-child interactions did not significantly predict post-traumatic stress symptoms in siblings exposed to IPV. Findings provided support for the notion of maternal compensatory strategies used to protect siblings from the detrimental consequences of IPV exposure.

It is well documented that exposure to intimate partner violence (IPV) negatively affects children’s developmental outcomes (Chan & Yeung, 2009; Evans, Davies & DiLillo, 2008) and may lead to the expression of symptomatology consistent with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) (Graham-Bermann, De Voe, Mattis, Lynch & Thomas, 2006; Kilpatrick & Williams,1998). Currently there is no consensus as to the nature of the influence of mother-child relationships on child outcomes such as post-traumatic stress symptoms in IPV-exposed families. The present study examined the role of maternal influences, such as the quality of mother-child interaction, maternal depression, and maternal violence history on sibling trauma outcomes. Results indicated that increased maternal depressive symptoms, maternal violence history, and negative mother-child interactions did not significantly predict post-traumatic stress symptoms in siblings exposed to IPV. Findings provided support for the notion of maternal compensatory strategies used to protect siblings from the detrimental consequences of IPV exposure.

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a disabling condition that afflicts 1-10% of the general population, with twice as high lifetime prevalence for women than men. Treatments exist, but none have proven reliable and consistent efficacy. A large minority of patients remain treatment-resistant despite undergoing several different types of treatment over extended periods of time. Recently completed studies in the U.S. and in Switzerland have demonstrated the potential of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA)-assisted psychotherapy for treatment-resistant PTSD. One of the major problems of treating PTSD is the patients’ fear state and inability to form a therapeutic alliance. Both these issues can be facilitated through administration of MDMA; the psychological effects - such as heightened empathy, increased openness and diminished anxiety – seem well-suited for therapeutic purposes. The rationale behind treating PTSD with MDMA has been indicated in neuroimaging studies; MDMA affects some of the neural structures altered in patients with PTSD, most notably the amygdala and the ventromedial prefrontal cortex. Using the Schedule 1 substance MDMA for this purpose is however controversial; animal studies have indicated that MDMA is neurotoxic, although no adverse effects on humans related to incidental use of MDMA in a controlled setting have been found. In conclusion, the data support that MDMA may be an efficient tool for treating PTSD, as well as safe and effective to use in a clinical context.

Magister Artium - MA / The intention of this dissertation is to clarify the psychological processes and effects which operate in the political detention situation, and to outline effective treatment and coping strategies. An overview of research literature and theory is provided, and the importance of viewing detention within a broad 'socio-political context is emphasised. In the analysis of the detention situation a number of variables likely to be operative are considered. Solitary confinement, torture, interrogation, reactions to severe stress situation s, and uncertainty, unpredictability and uncontrollability are given separate discussion, interaction situation. prior to an attempt to consider the of these variable s in the detention This projected picture is compared with case material gathered in the area. It is noted that political detention is not a uniform experience with a uniform set of effects. Rather, the effects are seen to be dependent on the particular differences in re-ponse. Nevertheless, political detention is shown to be commonly both objectively and subjectively severely stressful, with a strong likelihood of the detainee developing debilitating psychological sequelae. post-traumatic stress disorder appears to be commonly implicated, and symptom s may persist for many years. Family and community members and organisations to which the detainee belongs suffer not only the effects of the loss of that person, but also the problems of effectively helping him or her to reintegrate. It is shown that detainees have commonly drawn on a number of resources or strategies to counteract the potentially debilitating effects of prior preparation of detention. The for the detention experience to facilitate an accurate appraisal of the situation and better coping is emphasized. Useful strategies that may be learned or fostered are outlined. A multidisciplinary approach to treatment that acknowledges all of the difficulties and needs particular to any specific ex-detainee, and that draws on as broad a recommended. It is shown range of available supports Physiotherapy, psychotherapy, and family involvement are as possible, is medication where stressed. Necessary that much may be learned from Canadian and European units that rehabilitate victims of torture - mainly from South American countries; but that strategies need to be adapted to South African conditions.

School-age children are at high risk of experiencing traumatic and stressful events that can negatively impact their academic, emotional, and behavior performance (Brock et al., 2016). Any stressful situation (i.e., natural disaster) or adverse childhood experience (ACE) can potentially become a traumatic event for a child or adolescent. The current literature indicates that 60% of children experience at least one ACE, putting them at high risk for a variety of health and social problems (Manyema et al., 2018). Natural disasters adversely impact children's life as they have the potential to destroy physical structures and injure the child or family members. According to Inoue and colleagues (2018) natural disasters can additionally be considered as an ACE. The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between PTSD symptoms of students who have experienced a natural disaster (e.g., hurricane exposure) and students’ internalizing and externalizing behaviors. Participants included 75 students from elementary, middle, and high school in a school district in the Southeastern United States. Linear regression showed that PTSD symptoms are significantly correlated with internalizing and externalizing behaviors. However, moderation and interaction effects showed that he type of hurricane exposure did not significantly moderate the relationship between PTSD symptoms and students' internalizing and externalizing behaviors. Implications from these results suggest that trauma-informed strategies are needed for students that are exposed to a traumatic event.

<p>Magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) is a non-invasive diagnostic technique that provides unique information about the biochemical composition of the human body. By excluding the overwhelming signals from water and fat, clinically relevant biomarkers such as lactate, N-acetyl aspartate, choline, creatine, glutamate/glutamine (Glx), gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), glutathione, and myoinositol can be reliably quantified. MRS has diverse applications in investigating the metabolic window of a wide range of biochemical processes. </p> <p>Here, we have utilized MRS to better understand chemical changes associated with neurological disorders and treatment response. We have investigated neurometabolic imbalances in brain regions related to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). MRS was applied to better understand the neurobiological processes of hyperbaric oxygen therapy in military veterans with clinically diagnosed traumatic brain injury and/or PTSD.</p>

This study was conducted to identify gaps in existing knowledge regarding impacts of combat-related PTSD on the spouse and to gain an understanding of the lived experience of Appalachian Spouses of combat veterans with PTSD. A systematic literature review was conducted to identify research and findings on the impacts of combat-related PTSD on spouses of veterans and a qualitative study was conducted to gain an understanding of the lives of Appalachian spouses of combat veterans with PTSD. The systematic review identified 16 qualitative studies conducted between 1988 and 2016 in five countries spanning five wars. Regardless of the country of study or the war, the spouses experienced problems dealing with the symptoms of PTSD, emotional distress, impacts to relationships and caregiver burden. The systematic literature review revealed limited information on minority or underserved populations. Qualitative interview data from ten Appalachian spouses of combat veterans with PTSD were examined to gain an understanding of their lives. Data were obtained from semi-structured interviews. Findings indicate Appalachian Vietnam veteran spouses experience similar problems dealing with the veteran’s symptoms of PTSD, relationship problems, mental health problems and caregiver burden. The veterans in this study were not diagnosed with PTSD until later in life so they spent the majority of their life without knowledge or treatment for the illness. The women in this study expressed concerns that government and society have marginalized Vietnam veterans. This research highlights the need for outreach and PTSD education for Vietnam veterans and their spouses. Future research is recommended to expand the body of knowledge on the impacts of PTSD on the spouse with particular attention to other cultures, minority and underserved populations.

Le Trouble de Stress Post-Traumatique (TSPT) est une pathologie qui se développe chez des sujets exposés à des événements traumatiques. Cette pathologie est caractérisée par des reviviscences du traumatisme induisant des troubles anxieux invalidants et durables. Ces reviviscences, provoquées par des indices de rappel, sont à l'origine des fréquentes rechutes qui caractérisent le TSPT. La dépendance aux drogues d'abus est également caractérisée par une hyperréactivité aux indices de rappel qui est responsable du désir irrépressible de drogue ou " craving " et des nombreuses rechutes après abstinence. Nous avons fait l'hypothèse que cette susceptibilité aux indices environnementaux, commune aux deux pathologies, pourrait être due à un découplage des systèmes monoaminergiques induit par l'exposition à des conditions intenses, drogues d'abus ou traumatisme. Les données de cette thèse montrent que notre modèle animal de traumatisme (le Single Prolonged Stress) reproduit chez les individus vulnérables les symptômes de la pathologie, et une réactivité aux indices de rappel. Nos données indiquent également qu'un traumatisme induit, chez les individus vulnérables, une désensibilisation comportementale et une sensibilisation noradrénergique corticale, supportant l'hypothèse de découplage monoaminergique. Enfin, nous avons développé une nouvelle approche thérapeutique, le " remodelage émotionnel " capable de diminuer durablement les symptômes de type TSPT. Les résultats obtenus dans cette thèse, soutiennent l'hypothèse de bases physiologiques communes entre le TSPT et l'addiction, et proposent de nouvelles approches thérapeutiques pour ces deux pathologies. / Post-Traumatic Stress disorder (PSTD) appears on a part of individuals exposed to traumatic events. This pathology is characterized by frequent re-experiencing of the traumatic event inducing disabling and long-lasting anxiety disorders. These flashbacks, triggered by reminder cues, are responsible for the frequent relapses that characterize PTSD. Addiction to drugs of abuse is also characterized by a hyper reactivity to reminder cues which is responsible for drug craving and relapses. We hypothesized that such a susceptibility to environmental cues, common to both pathologies, could be due to an uncoupling of monoaminergic systems induced by exposure to intense conditions (trauma or drugs). Data from this thesis showed that our animal model of PTSD (the Single Prolonged Stress) reproduced PTSD-like symptoms on vulnerable rats, and reactivity to reminder cues. Our data also showed that trauma induced a behavioral desensitization and a cortical noradrenergic sensitization, in vulnerable traumatized rats, supporting the hypothesis of monoaminergic uncoupling. Finally, we developed a new therapeutic approach, the "emotional remodeling" which was shown to durably decrease PTSD-like symptoms. The results obtained in this thesis support the hypothesis of common physiological basis between PTSD and drug addiction, and offer new therapeutic approaches for these two pathologies.