Childhood maltreatment has been linked to adult depressive disorders. However, few studies have examined mechanisms through which childhood maltreatment may contribute to adult depression. Thus, we examined the role of one potential mechanism of this relationship, maladaptive cognitions, in a recently traumatized sample. Participants were adult women who had been recently raped (n = 133) or physically assaulted (n = 73). We examined whether maladaptive self-and other-cognitions mediated relationships between childhood sexual, physical, and emotional abuse and current depression. Relationships between childhood sexual abuse and both current depression symptoms and diagnosis were mediated by maladaptive cognitions about self. Relationships between both childhood sexual abuse and childhood physical abuse and adult depressive symptoms were mediated by maladaptive cognitions about others.

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Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) and Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) combat Veterans are at risk for developing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Many are seeking treatment from the Veterans Health Administration; yet, it is an ongoing challenge to engage some Veterans in sustained mental health services, especially group therapy for PTSD. This pilot study assessed OEF/OIF Veterans' prior use of mental health treatment and perceived barriers to and interest in group therapy for PTSD using a survey distributed in one outpatient OEF/OIF PTSD specialty clinic in the Midwest. The 110 OEF/OIF Veterans reported experience with a range of mental health treatment services and most frequently identified perceptions of the group process to be barriers to engaging in group therapy. Specifically, OEF/OIF Veterans endorsed concerns about taking part in a group, expressing emotions, being misunderstood, and disliking the group composition. A clear preference for individual over group therapy for PTSD treatment was reported with 57% reporting disinterest in group therapy. Data suggest that Veterans are apprehensive about taking part in group therapy for PTSD. Awareness of barriers and treatment preferences can inform clinical practice and aid in developing patient-centered Veterans Health Administration services.

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