Traumatic Stress Conceptual Framework

doi:10.1017/9781108877992.011

Chapter 10 - Traumatic Stress Conceptual Framework

Published online by Cambridge University Press: 20 May 2022

Robert Pynoos and

Edited by

Alan Steinberg and

Armen Goenjian: Affiliation:
David Geffen School of Medicine; UCLA/Duke University National Center for Child Traumatic Stress
Alan Steinberg: Affiliation:
UCLA/Duke University National Center for Child Traumatic Stress
Robert Pynoos: Affiliation:
UCLA/Duke University National Center for Child Traumatic Stress

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Summary

This chapter provides an overview of the components of the evolving conceptual model since the 1988 Spitak earthquake that guided the intervention and research arms of our work in Armenia. With the concept of traumatic stress as the gateway to post-trauma sequelae and recovery, we recognized the important contributions made by post-trauma adversities and the pervasiveness of trauma and loss reminders in the aftermath. Individual and ecological factors were seen as making powerful contributions to the impact and course of recovery, especially in terms of factors associated with resistance, resilience, vulnerability, adjustment, maladjustment, and pathology. The traumatic stress pathway is embedded in a developmental perspective, with the understanding that child, adolescent, and adult development plays an overarching role across all aspects of the conceptual framework. In addition, cultural and religious factors are also seen as integral. Implications of the conceptual model for data collection metrics and methodology, as well as intervention strategies are also discussed.

Keywords

traumatic stress conceptual model causal concepts risk resilience adjustment recovery pathology

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Type: Chapter
Information: Lessons Learned in Disaster Mental Health
The Earthquake in Armenia and Beyond
, pp. 162 - 178
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1017/9781108877992.011 [Opens in a new window]
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2022

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