A prospective study of the relationship between adverse life events and trauma in adults with mild to moderate intellectual disabilities. (23rd December 2013)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Wigham, S.; Taylor, J. L.; Hatton, C.
• Is Part Of: Journal of intellectual disability research. Volume 58:Part 12(2014:Dec.)
• Page Start: 1131
• Page End: 1140
• Publication Date: 2013-12-23
• Subjects: Mental retardation -- Research -- Periodicals; 362.2
• DOI: 10.1111/jir.12107
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0964-2633

Abstract

<abstract abstract-type="main"> <title>Abstract</title> <sec id="jir12107-sec-0001" sec-type="section"> <title>Background</title> <p>Research has demonstrated a relationship between the experience of life events and psychopathology in people with intellectual disabilities (ID), however few studies have established causal links and to date no prospective studies have utilised a measure of trauma that has been developed specifically for this population group.</p> </sec> <sec id="jir12107-sec-0002" sec-type="section"> <title>Method</title> <p>This 6‐month prospective study examined longitudinal relationships between adverse life events and trauma in 99 adults with mild to moderate ID.</p> </sec> <sec id="jir12107-sec-0003" sec-type="section"> <title>Results</title> <p>Life events during the previous 6 months were significantly predictive of levels of trauma as measured by the self‐report Lancaster and Northgate trauma scales (LANTS), and the informant LANTS behavioural changes, frequency and severity sub‐scales. This prospective causal relationship was demonstrated while controlling for any prior life events or pre‐existing trauma, though the relationship was not moderated by social support.</p> </sec> <sec id="jir12107-sec-0004" sec-type="section"> <title>Conclusions</title> <p>Evidence of a causal relationship between adverse life events and trauma symptoms is important for treatment planning and funding allocation.</p> </sec> </abstract>