Abstract
The prevalence of exposure to traumatic events in childhood and adolescence is high and is associated with a host of mental health difficulties. However, not all trauma-exposed youth develop mental health difficulties in the wake of trauma, suggesting that other factors, such as personality and genetic influences, may play a role in posttrauma adjustment. In the present article, we provide an overview of how personality factors influence posttrauma trajectories and how both personality and posttrauma adjustment may be influenced by genetic factors. We first review major personality constructs, with a focus on developmental and assessment considerations in trauma-exposed youth. Next, we provide a discussion of genetic influences on personality, exposure to traumatic events, and the development of mental health disorders following traumatic event exposure. Lastly, recommendations for future research are provided.
Acknowledgments
Support for this manuscript preparation was provided by MH018869-22 and DA022981-02 (JC), US-NICHD HD0558 85 (AA), and MH087240 (NN).