Exploring the recovery process after experiencing interpersonal trauma
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Exploring the recovery process after experiencing interpersonal trauma
IRAS ID
159601
Contact name
Anke Kossurok
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Edinburgh
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 0 months, 0 days
Research summary
Experiences of physical, sexual or emotional abuse in childhood have been related to a variety of negative consequences for trauma survivors in adulthood. Research has found that these consequences include complex, severe and long-lasting mental health problems as well as difficulties of managing day-to-day life and relationships. Existing studies unpicked some of the overall components involved in the recovery from these post-trauma difficulties. However, two key difficulties – namely, dealing with negative emotions and difficulties in relationships – remain relatively unknown. Therefore, this study aims to investigate how adults with a history of interpersonal trauma recover and, in particular, what processes and components are involved that facilitate a shift from (A) difficulties in regulating emotions and interpersonal difficulties to (B) emotional and interpersonal competence. In order to answer this question, a small sample of adult trauma survivors will be recruited from clinical and community settings. These will be individuals who have identified themselves as having been a victim of abuse, have disclosed their trauma experience to someone before, and are in current treatment or otherwise help seeking. They will be interviewed individually about their recovery journey and, particularly, about its emotional and interpersonal aspects. Findings will help to develop a theory of emotional and interpersonal trauma recovery, benefit training and treatment, and inform services to facilitate survivor-centred recovery.
REC name
South East Scotland REC 01
REC reference
15/SS/0013
Date of REC Opinion
6 Feb 2015
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion