Comparing the Effects of Victimization,Witnessed Violence,Hearing about Violence,and Violent Behavior on Young Adults

Abstract

This study compares the effects of: (1) violent victimization, (2) witnessing violence, (3) hearing about violence, and (4) violent behavior on depression and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) among a sample of young adults. All forms of lifetime exposure were significantly correlated with depression and PTSD, but when they were assessed simultaneously, victimization had the strongest effect. Witnessing violence over the lifetime also had a significant effect on PTSD. High social support was related to fewer symptoms of depression and PTSD. Social support and gender were investigated as moderators. High social support moderated the effects of recent victimization on depression and PTSD. Gender did not moderate the effects of exposure to violence on depression, but it did moderate the effects of recent witnessed violence and violent behavior (both recent and lifetime) on PTSD. Women were more negatively affected than men by recent witnessed violence and engaging in violent behavior. Implications for interventions are discussed.

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