PTSD–Related Cognitions and Romantic Attachment Style as Moderators of Psychological Symptoms in Victims of Interpersonal Trauma

Both PTSD–related cognitions and adult romantic attachment cognitions have been linked to level of symptomatology and can be conceptualized as interpersonal cognitive schemas that may increase vulnerability to the development of psychological symptoms. The present study examined PTSD–related cognitions and adult romantic attachment as moderators of symptom development after interpersonal trauma. Victims reported higher levels of PTSD–related cognitions and attachment anxiety, but not attachment avoidance, than nonvictims. Results suggest that the experience of trauma, high levels of insecure attachment, and high levels of PTSD–related cognitions are associated with higher levels of symptomatology. In addition, PTSD–related cognitions served as a unique predictor of PTSD symptoms, and moderated the relation between attachment anxiety and depressive symptoms.