Joseph Missler
Research Mentor: Sara Stein
Mentor Department: HBHE, Public Health
Author(s): Not Available
Session: Session 7 (4:00 PM – 4:50 PM)
Presentation Type: Poster 59
Abstract
Research on posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) has expanded substantially in recent years; however, concerns remain regarding the inclusivity and representativeness of study samples, particularly in civilian-focused research. This scoping review aims to characterize the samples used in empirical studies of non-combat-related PTSD/PTSS, with specific attention to sample diversity, index trauma characteristics, and approaches to trauma symptom measurement. Understanding these patterns is critical for evaluating the generalizability of findings and identifying gaps that may contribute to inequities in trauma research and clinical practice. This review will include empirical studies published between 2013 and the present that examine PTSD or PTSS as a primary outcome in adult civilian populations. Eligible studies will be drawn from the top five trauma-focused journals based on impact factor and will include quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods designs. Studies focused on military or veteran populations, combat-related trauma, individuals under 18 years of age, or non-empirical sources will be excluded. A comprehensive search will be conducted in relevant electronic databases, with studies screened and managed using Covidence. Data extraction will be completed using JBI SUMARI, with multiple reviewers independently coding studies for sample diversity (race/ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, and country of origin), index trauma characteristics, and trauma symptom measurement methods. Findings will be summarized using descriptive statistics, tables, and figures, alongside a narrative synthesis. This review will also explore whether certain trauma types are more frequently studied in underrepresented versus majority groups. Overall, the results are expected to highlight patterns and gaps in current PTSD/PTSS research and inform more inclusive and equitable approaches to future trauma studies.
