Role of social support and coping strategies on PTSD symptoms among burn survivors

Abstract

The current study aimed to explore the prevalence of Post-traumatic stress disorder and examine the role of coping strategies and perceived social support in PTSD among burn survivors. Post-traumatic stress disorder was measured by using Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Checklist (PCL-5) developed by Weathers et al (2013), Coping strategies of burn survivors assessed by Coping with Burn Questionnaire developed by Mimme Willebrand et al (2001), and Perceived Social Support measured by Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support by Zimet,Dahlem,Zimet & Faeley (1988). Sample comprised of 80 participants (99 female and 81 males) are ranged from 16 to 60 years. PTSD is present in 131 patients out of 180.It was hypothesized that there is significant negative relationship between family, friends and significant others and PTSD. Emotional support has negative relationship and Avoidance coping strategies has positive relationship with PTSD. The results revealed that the social support and coping strategies are significantly higher in non-PTSD patients than PTSD patients among burn survivors. Perceived social support from significant others and adjustment coping strategies minimized PTSD symptoms. Whereas Instrumental action type of coping strategies increased PTSD symptoms. There was no significantly difference in PTSD symptoms with respect to the gender that means males and females were equally face the PTSD symptoms. Illiterate burn survivors found high in PTSD symptoms then educated burn survivors. The study emphasis that psychosocial help is also important for burn survivors.