Re-examining the Role of Social Support in Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Recovery
Evidence from Middle-Aged Immigrant Motor Vehicle Accident
DOI :
https://doi.org/10.63988/Résumé
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can significantly disrupt emotional well-being, daily functioning, and overall quality of life. Social support is often viewed as essential to recovery, helping to reduce isolation and promote resilience. However, existing research shows inconsistent findings, particularly among immigrant populations, where cultural and structural factors may influence how support is experienced. This study is grounded in trauma theory and the Biopsychosocial Model, which together provide a lens for understanding how traumatic experiences and interacting biological, psychological, and social factors shape mental health outcomes. Using a quantitative design, data were collected from a diverse immigrant sample (n = 120). PTSD severity was measured using a standardized symptom scale, while quality of life was assessed across physical, psychological, social, and environmental domains. Social support was measured based on perceived emotional and practical assistance. Correlation and regression analyses were conducted to examine relationships and test moderation effects. Results showed a significant negative relationship between PTSD severity and quality of life (r = −0.52, p < .01), indicating that higher symptom levels were associated with poorer well-being. However, social support did not significantly moderate this relationship (β = 0.08, p > .05). These findings challenge the assumption that social support alone buffers the effects of PTSD, particularly within immigrant populations. Drawing on the Biopsychosocial Model, the results suggest that broader structural and contextual factors may play a more decisive role. The study highlights the need for culturally sensitive and structurally informed interventions that go beyond interpersonal support to improve the quality of life among individuals living with PTSD.
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(c) Copyright Ali Muhammad1, Niceta Ireri, Preskila Munda 2026
Ce travail est disponible sous la licence Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International .
