Meta-Analysis of Cultural Influences in Trauma Exposure and PTSD Prevalence Rates

Abstract

Introduction: The global prevalence of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) continues to rise, the influence of culture and resilience remains unclear. This review and meta-analysis aimed to (a) examine the prevalence of PTSD among studies addressing culture and resilience, and (b) compare the PTSD prevalence rates across different trauma exposures and cultural contexts. Methodology: PubMed, CINAHL, and PsycINFO were searched for articles published between 01/01/2000 to 12/01/019 that defined PTSD, reported PTSD prevalence rates, and addressed culture and resilience. Meta-analysis of PTSD prevalence rates was performed using generalized linear mixed models. Results: Thirty articles met all search criteria. In the pooled sample of 20,138 participants, 3,403 met defined PTSD diagnostic criteria. The random-effects model showed PTSD cultural effects. Refugees displaced in similar cultures (0.44) had higher rates of PTSD. Discussion: Findings indicate that trauma-informed, practical assessments of health protective cultural determinants may promote individual resilience and reduce the risk of PTSD in displaced refugees.