Posttraumatic Stress and Interpersonal Sensitivity: Alexithymia as Mediator and Emotional Expressivity as Moderator

Abstract

This study examined 1) the link between PTSD from past trauma, interpersonal sensitivity and psychiatric co-morbidity, 2) mediational effects of alexithymia on 1), and 3) moderated mediational effects with emotional expressivity as the moderator. Five hundred and fifteen Kazakh students completed the Posttraumatic Stress Diagnostic Scale, General Health Questionnaire-28, Toronto Alexithymia Scale-20, Berkeley Expressivity Questionnaire and Interpersonal Sensitivity Measure. The results showed that 28% met the criteria for full-PTSD. Controlling for academic year, age and university major, PTSD from past trauma was significantly correlated with interpersonal sensitivity and psychiatric co-morbidity. Alexithymia mediated the impact of PTSD on interpersonal sensitivity and psychiatric co-morbidity. Alexithymia, however, did not interact with type of emotional expressivity to influence outcomes. Moderated mediational effects were not found. To conclude, following trauma, Kazakh students can experience heightened levels of interpersonal sensitivity and psychological symptoms. These problems are particularly severe for those who have difficulty getting in touch with their emotions.