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Complex Sequelae of Psychological Trauma Among Kosovar Civilian War Victims

Author

Listed:
  • Nexhmedin Morina

    (University of Frankfurt, Department of Psychology, Varrentrappstr. 40-42, D-60486 Frankfurt am Main, Germany, morina@psych.uni-frankfurt.de)

  • Julian D. Ford

    (Department of Psychiatry MC1410, University of Connecticut Health Center, 263 Farmington Ave., Farmington, CT 06032, USA)

Abstract

Aims: The impact of war trauma on civilians may include, but also extend beyond, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) to include complex sequelae such as those described by the syndrome of Disorders of Extreme Stress Not Otherwise Specified (DESNOS). Methods: In the present study, 102 civilian war victims were interviewed in Kosovo, assessing traumatic life events, PTSD, DESNOS, and depression. Results: Full DESNOS rarely occurred (2% prevalence), however, clinically significant DESNOS symptoms of somatization, altered relationships, and altered systems of meaning were reported by between 24—42% of respondents. Although DESNOS symptoms were correlated with PTSD symptoms, DESNOS symptoms were associated with poorer overall psychological functioning, self-evaluations, satisfaction with life, and social support independent of the effects of PTSD. Conclusion: The findings suggest that DESNOS warrants attention in addition to PTSD in the assessment and treatment of civilians who have been exposed to war and genocide.

Suggested Citation

  • Nexhmedin Morina & Julian D. Ford, 2008. "Complex Sequelae of Psychological Trauma Among Kosovar Civilian War Victims," International Journal of Social Psychiatry, , vol. 54(5), pages 425-436, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:socpsy:v:54:y:2008:i:5:p:425-436
    DOI: 10.1177/0020764008090505
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