J Korean Acad Psychiatr Ment Health Nurs.  2015 Dec;24(4):257-266. 10.12934/jkpmhn.2015.24.4.257.

Impact of Childhood Trauma and Social Support on Dissociative Symptoms in Marines

• Kong SS
• Kim HR

• KMID: 2151870
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.12934/jkpmhn.2015.24.4.257

Abstract

PURPOSE
The purposes of the study were to investigate childhood traumatic experiences and social support that might influence dissociative symptoms in Marine soldiers.
METHODS
A cross-sectional study design was used with participants who were soldiers (n=122) assigned to one Marine corps in Ganghwa Island in the study. Data were collected on September 2015 through self-report using the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire, Social Provisions Scale (SPS), and Dissociative Experience Scale. Descriptive analysis, t-test, ANOVA, Pearson's correlation coefficients and stepwise multiple regression were performed.
RESULTS
A total of 11.5% self-reported experiencing over three types of trauma; emotional neglect 34.4%, physical neglect 32.8%, emotional abuse 11.5%, physical abuse 11.5%, and sexual abuse 9.8%. For all subscales of the SPS, means of item were as high as three out of four points. A total of 9.0% were likely to be dissociative disorder. Sexual abuse, attachment, and opportunity for nurturance were found to be significant factors influencing dissociative symptoms.
CONCLUSION
Future military enlistment in Marines should include assessment of childhood trauma and dissociation to identify maladaptive soldiers. Because soldiers who experienced childhood sexual abuse are likely to show dissociative symptoms, military nurses should assess their social support and try to enhance attachment in order to prevent dissociative symptoms.

Keyword

Trauma; Dissociation; Social support; Marines

MeSH Terms

Cross-Sectional Studies
Dissociative Disorders
Humans
Military Personnel*
Sex Offenses

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