The impact of reading trauma literature on Chinese undergraduates’ PTSD: the mediating roles of social support and empathy

Trauma literature has emerged as a powerful medium for exploring collective and individual psychological experiences. However, its the potential psychological risks—particularly its association with PTSD symptoms among students—have not been thoroughly examined, especially in the context of Chinese undergraduates who face unique academic and social pressures. This study investigates the impact of trauma literature on PTSD symptoms, with a focus on the mediating roles of social support and empathy. Our findings demonstrate that trauma literature can alleviate psychological distress, while also highlighting the critical moderating roles of social support and empathy in mitigating potential adverse effects. The study underscores the need for trauma-informed pedagogical approaches to balance literary education with mental health considerations, offering practical implications for educators and policymakers.