Predictors of posttraumatic stress symptoms in Syrian refugees -

Abstract

The 2011 Syrian war has created the largest refugee crisis of our time, with Lebanon hosting over one million refugees. Refugees are at high risk of exposure to multiple traumas, which contributes to an elevated vulnerability to developing symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Yet, there is a lack of empirical research investigating PTSD symptoms and their predictors in Syrian refugees in general and in Lebanon in particular. We surveyed 158 Syrian refugee adults in 2 informal tented settlements in the Bekaa region of Lebanon. Approximately 17percent of our sample endorsed high PTSD symptoms. Hierarchical regression analysis controlling for trauma exposure and gender identified perceived injustice, trauma-related shame, and sense of coherence as significant predictors of current PTSD symptoms. The findings highlight the importance of considering both socio-interpersonal and intrapersonal factors when assessing PTSD symptoms among Syrian refugees. Limitations and field considerations are also discussed.