A comparison of combat's effects on PTSD scores in veterans with high and low moral development

This study was designed to explore the effects of moral development on the relationship between combat intensity and severity of posttraumatic stress disorder. The effect of combat intensity on PTSD Interview total scores and several individual stress disorder symptom ratings was substantial in a Low Moral Development sample, but negligible in a High Moral Development group. These data suggest that moral development may blunt the effect of combat severity on PTSD. These effects were strongest on items that describe reexperiencing of the trauma and exaggerated arousal. Possible interpretations of the results and several caveats were discussed.