Persistent grief in the aftermath of mass violence: the predictive roles of posttraumatic stress symptoms, self-efficacy, and disrupted worldview

Psychological Trauma : Theory, Research, Practice and Policy
Andrew J SmithRussell T Jones

Abstract

This study tested a conceptual model merging anxiety buffer disruption and social-cognitive theories to predict persistent grief severity among students who lost a close friend, significant other, and/or professor/teacher in tragic university campus shootings. A regression-based path model tested posttraumatic stress (PTS) symptom severity 3 to 4 months postshooting (Time 1) as a predictor of grief severity 1 year postshootings (Time 2), both directly and indirectly through cognitive processes (self-efficacy and disrupted worldview). Results revealed a model that predicted 61% of the variance in Time 2 grief severity. Hypotheses were supported, demonstrating that Time 1 PTS severity indirectly, positively predicted Time 2 grief severity through undermining self-efficacy and more severely disrupting worldview. Findings and theoretical interpretation yield important insights for future research and clinical application.

Citations

Sep 30, 2014·Anxiety, Stress, and Coping·Andrew J SmithRussell T Jones
Nov 12, 2016·Journal of Psychiatric Research·Menachem Ben-EzraKrzysztof Kaniasty
Jun 19, 2015·Trauma, Violence & Abuse·Sarah R Lowe, Sandro Galea
Mar 13, 2019·Personality & Social Psychology Bulletin·Paul J MaherEric R Igou
Jun 23, 2020·Scandinavian Journal of Psychology·Janske H W van EerselPaul A Boelen

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