What question did this study set out to answer?

This study aims to explore how self-efficacy influences the relationship between trauma exposure and PTSD symptoms among Syrian refugees.

June 11, 2026

Self-Efficacy as a Buffer in the Link Between Trauma Exposure and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Among Syrian Refugees

Key Points

This study aims to explore how self-efficacy influences the relationship between trauma exposure and PTSD symptoms among Syrian refugees.
Cross-sectional survey conducted with 339 Syrian refugees in Istanbul from September 2018 to March 2019.
Trauma exposure was measured using the Harvard Trauma Questionnaire, while PTSD symptoms were assessed using its subscale.
Self-efficacy was measured with the General Self-Efficacy Scale, and psychological distress with the Kessler-10 Scale.
Self-efficacy significantly moderated the relationship between trauma exposure and PTSD symptoms, indicating its protective role.
The analysis controlled for perceived social support and psychological distress, underscoring the unique contribution of self-efficacy.
Building self-efficacy was recommended as a strategy for support services aimed at displaced populations.

Abstract

Forced displacement among refugees is frequently accompanied by profound trauma exposure, with elevated risk of developing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Yet, not all trauma-exposed individuals develop PTSD; protective resources play an important role in shaping psychological outcomes. Prior research has identified self-efficacy and social support as important resources, with evidence that the beneficial effects of social support on mental health often operate through enhanced self-efficacy. The present study investigates the role of self-efficacy as a primary psychological resource that may buffer the impact of trauma exposure on mental health outcomes. A total of 339 Syrian refugees residing in Istanbul participated in a cross-sectional survey conducted between September 2018 and March 2019. Trauma exposure was measured with Part I of the Harvard Trauma Questionnaire (HTQ), while PTSD symptoms were assessed using its Part IV subscale, self-efficacy with the General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSE), perceived social support with the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS), and psychological distress with the Kessler-10 Scale. The moderation analysis showed that self-efficacy significantly moderated the relationship between trauma exposure and PTSD symptoms, even after controlling for the well-established effects of perceived social support and psychological distress. Findings highlighted the importance of self-efficacy in mitigating the psychological impact of trauma exposure and reducing PTSD symptoms among refugees. Findings provide evidence for incorporating strategies to build self-efficacy into support services for displaced populations.

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