The impact of traumatic events on dissociative experiences in hospitalized patients with anorexia nervosa: a moderated mediation study

This cross-sectional study investigates the relationship between traumatic experiences and dissociative symptoms (psychoform, somatoform, and structural) in individuals with anorexia nervosa (AN). We explored the mediating role of complex post-traumatic stress symptoms (CPTSD) and the moderating role of the length of inpatient stay. A clinical sample of 107 inpatients diagnosed with AN participated by completing internationally validated questionnaires (e.g., ITQ, TLEQ, DES-B, SDQ-20). Results revealed significant positive associations between the intensity of traumatic events prior to AN onset and all three types of dissociative symptoms, as well as CPTSD symptoms. CPTSD significantly mediated these associations. Furthermore, the length of inpatient stay moderated the relationship between trauma intensity and dissociative symptoms, particularly in patients with early trauma histories. Our findings highlight the importance of trauma-informed care in AN treatment. By addressing CPTSD and dissociative symptoms, clinicians may improve therapeutic outcomes and potentially reduce hospitalization durations.