Rejection sensitivity and vulnerable attachment: associations with social support and PTSD symptoms in trauma survivors

Abstract

Background Although social support has been consistently associated with recovery from psychological trauma and prevention of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), individual differences in seeking or benefitting from social support in trauma survivors are not well understood. Factors associated with negative internal working models of self and others, emotion dysregulation, and interrupted bonds with an individual’s social support groups such as vulnerable attachment and rejection sensitivity could contribute to lower experienced social support and higher levels of PTSD. Objective The objective of this study was to test a theoretically informed model and investigate how psychosocial variables such as vulnerable attachment styles, rejection sensitivity, and social support are associated with PTSD. Method Using a cross-sectional survey and path analyses in 141 survivors of trauma (aged 18–69, M = 25.20), the relationship between vulnerable attachment style, rejection sensitivity, and PTSD were investigated. Results Higher vulnerable attachment, rejection sensitivity, and lower social support were found to be significant predictors of PTSD symptoms ( f 2 = 0.75). The relationships from vulnerable attachment to PTSD were mediated by rejection sensitivity and perceived social support. The results supported and extend theoretical models of PTSD that posit a role for predisposing factors in the development and maintenance of the disorder. Conclusion The findings suggest a potential benefit of identifying vulnerable groups that could benefit from a refinement of existing PTSD interventions by targeting the maladaptive effects of vulnerable attachment and rejection sensitivity, thus allowing the individual to draw effectively on social support networks.

Child Maltreatment as a Risk Factor for Rejection Sensitivity: A Three-Level Meta-Analytic Review

“…Thus, future studies could examine these differences and potentially shed light on the neurobiological mechanisms through which different forms of maltreatment are related to rejection sensitivity. Future behavioral studies could also examine potential relevant moderating and mediating factors in the association between child maltreatment and rejection sensitivity, such as supportive relationships (Jittayuthd & Karl, 2022; McDonald et al, 2010) that may play a key role in attempts to break the intergenerational transmission of rejection sensitivity. From a gene–environment interaction perspective, future research exploring the influences of gene and environment on rejection sensitivity seems promising.…”

Investigating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and complex PTSD among people with self-reported depressive symptoms

“…Regarding the research questions and hypotheses, as noted, this study aimed to investigate the prevalence of PTSD/CPTSD in this sample. In addition, we also examined the relationship between PTSD/CPTSD symptoms and interpersonal stress, dissociation and psychotic symptoms because these experiences are commonly associated with trauma ( 33 – 35 ).…”

Social Support Networks, Coping Mechanisms, and Mental Health Outcomes in Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Patients in Yogyakarta

“…The Eastasouth Journal of Social Science and Humanities (ESSSH)  networks, which provide individuals coping with trauma a sense of belonging, understanding, and assistance in practical matters3. Studies have shown that higher levels of perceived social support are associated with better mental health outcomes in PTSD patients [19], [20].…”