The impact of culture on trauma-related appraisals: Implications for the maintenance and treatment of posttraumatic stress

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a disabling psychological condition observed in many different societies and cultures. Appraisals have a central role in PTSD and are targeted in treatment. Most psychological treatment methods and models for PTSD have, however, been derived from research using Western populations. Additionally, culture is known to affect the way in which individuals appraise an experience. To date, there is little research has considered the influence of culture on appraisals in PTSD. This research aimed to improve PTSD models for those from different cultural backgrounds, by considering cultural differences in trauma-related appraisals and the implications for treatment.