Occurence of Symptoms of Ptsd and Complex Ptsd in Homeless Persons and Survivors of Domestic Violence (Paperback)

This dissertation discusses the diagnoses of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Complex Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (Complex PTSD), specifically as these pertain to survivors of domestic violence and homeless persons with consideration of gender, ethnicity, and history of childhood abuse. Past research suggests that survivors of domestic violence and homeless persons show evidence of greater trauma experiences than the general population. It has been suggested that a Posttraumatic Stress Disorder diagnosis might not be sufficient to capture the multiple challenges with which survivors of domestic violence and homeless persons are confronted. Prior research indicates that a diagnosis of Complex Posttraumatic Stress Disorder might be more appropriate for individuals who have experienced repeated interpersonal trauma. This dissertation presents a possibly more pertinent diagnostic approach and subsequent differential treatment involving individuals who have experienced repeated interpersonal trauma, often with onset in early childhood. The study examined the level of PTSD and Complex PTSD in the selected populations utilizing a demographic questionnaire, the Structured Interview for Disorders of Extreme Stress (SIDES), and the Trauma Center PTSD Symptom Scale. Attempts were made to validate each instrument for use of assessment of homeless individuals and survivors of domestic violence.