PTSD and relationship satisfaction in female survivors of sexual assault.

OBJECTIVE: Intimate relationships are critical to posttrauma functioning and recovery. The vast majority of research focusing on PTSD and relationship functioning has focused exclusively on male combat veterans, from whom female sexual assault survivors may differ in critical ways. This study investigates the strength of the association between PTSD symptoms and relationship satisfaction, as well as the role of three interpersonal processes (sexuality, communication, and hostility) in female sexual assault survivors.

METHOD: Data was collected from female survivors of sexual assault in romantic relationships via online survey.

RESULTS: PTSD symptom severity and relationship satisfaction were not significantly correlated. The direct effect of PTSD symptom severity on relationship satisfaction was positive, whereas indirect effects through negative communication, positive communication, and sexual satisfaction were all significantly negative, as expected. Finally, the correlation of PTSD symptom severity with relationship satisfaction differed depending on whether or not participants were in treatment. Results suggest that for those not in treatment, greater PTSD symptoms are associated with poorer relationship satisfaction.

CONCLUSIONS: Preliminary evidence suggests that communication and sexual satisfaction may be particularly salient issues for sexual assault survivors' posttrauma psychopathological and relationship functioning, but participation in treatment may be associated with reduced impact of PTSD symptoms on interpersonal functioning. (PsycINFO Database Record