Cumulative Trauma, PTSD and Dissociation Among Ethiopian Refugees in Israel

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to examine the exposure of Ethiopian refugees to pre-, peri- and post-migration stressful events and their implications for both posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and dissociation. Method: A random sample (N = 478) of three groups of refugees took part in the research (“Moses” immigrants, 1984, n = 165; “Solomon” immigrants, 1991, n = 169; “Family Reunification” immigrants, 1995, n = 144). Exposure to stressful events and posttraumatic symptoms were assessed via the Harvard Trauma Questionnaire (HTQ). Post-migration difficulties were assessed via the Post Migration Living Difficulties (PMLD) scale. Dissociation was evaluated using the Dissociation Experience Scale (DES). Results: Significant differences were found among the groups in the rates of PTSD (27%, 15%, and 26%, respectively), but no differences were found in dissociation. A significant relationship was found between PTSD symptoms and cumulative trauma among the three groups, but no such relationship was found between dissociation and cumulative trauma. The differences among the groups were discussed in light of the unique characteristics of cumulative trauma, PTSD and dissociation among Ethiopian refugees.

KEYWORDS:

• immigration
• Ethiopian refugees
• cumulative trauma
• PTSD
• dissociation

Grant support was provided by The Israel National Institute for Health Policy and Health Services, Sheba Medical Center, Gertner Building, 52621, Israel.