Analysis of Characteristics and Correlates of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Among Children in Adversity

This study aims to explore the characteristics and correlates of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among children in adversity. Using empirical data from 53 children aged 12~17 registered as “children in adversity” in a district of Shanghai, measurements were conducted using the Child and Adolescent Trauma Screen (CATS-2), the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale (DERS), and the Experiences in Close Relationships–Relationship Structures scale (ECR-RS). Results revealed that 47.17% of participants reported at least one traumatic event, with 7.55% meeting PTSD diagnostic criteria. Gender differences emerged in PTSD symptom severity, with males exhibiting higher rates of clinically significant symptoms (30.19%) compared to females (16%). Children lacking guardianship exhibited the highest rate of abnormal PTSD scores (100%). Regression analyses indicated that self-esteem (β=-0.415) and self-efficacy (β=-0.422) were negatively correlated with PTSD severity, while emotion regulation difficulties (β=0.444) and anxious attachment to mothers (β=0.36) significantly predicted higher PTSD symptoms. Heterogeneity in PTSD correlates was observed across adversity subtypes: Peer attachment anxiety was salient among single-parent impoverished children, while emotion regulation difficulties exerted stronger effects among children lacking guardianship. These findings highlight the internal heterogeneity of PTSD manifestations within this population, challenging assumptions of homogeneity, and underscore the need for tailored interventions targeting self-esteem, emotion regulation, and relational dynamics. Future research should expand sample sizes, incorporate qualitative analyses, and integrate regional-cultural factors to refine intervention frameworks.