Self-Efficacy as a Buffer in the Link Between Trauma Exposure and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Among Syrian Refugees

Forced displacement among refugees is frequently accompanied by profound trauma exposure, with elevated risk of developing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Yet, not all trauma-exposed individuals develop PTSD; protective resources play an important role in shaping psychological outcomes. Prior research has identified self-efficacy and social support as important resources, with evidence that the beneficial effects of social support on mental health often operate through enhanced self-efficacy. The present study investigates the role of self-efficacy as a primary psychological resource that may buffer the impact of trauma exposure on mental health outcomes. A total of 339 Syrian refugees residing in Istanbul participated in a cross-sectional survey conducted between September 2018 and March 2019. Trauma exposure was measured with Part I of the Harvard Trauma Questionnaire (HTQ), while PTSD symptoms were assessed using its Part IV subscale, self-efficacy with the General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSE), perceived social support with the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS), and psychological distress with the Kessler-10 Scale. The moderation analysis showed that self-efficacy significantly moderated the relationship between trauma exposure and PTSD symptoms, even after controlling for the well-established effects of perceived social support and psychological distress. Findings highlighted the importance of self-efficacy in mitigating the psychological impact of trauma exposure and reducing PTSD symptoms among refugees. Findings provide evidence for incorporating strategies to build self-efficacy into support services for displaced populations.