PTSD as a Predictor of Differential Development of Dual Systems Model Constructs: A Group-Based Trajectory Modeling Approach

Abstract

The dual systems model is a prominent framework for understanding how differential cognitive development of impulse control and sensation-seeking predicts peak involvement in risky behaviors during adolescence. This study examines heterogeneity in the development of dual systems constructs and examines post-traumatic stress disorder as a driver of differential development. This study utilized data from all 11 waves of the Pathways to Desistance study. Group-based trajectory modeling was used to identify heterogeneity in developmental patterns of impulse control and sensation-seeking. Multinomial logistic regression was used to assess the relevance of post-traumatic stress disorder for predicting differential development. Results indicated that three-group models provided best fit to the data for both constructs. All groups in both models were highly stable and demonstrated rank stability. Meeting criteria for a lifetime diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder predicted patterns of stable and high sensation-seeking, but did not predict development of impulse control. Findings suggest that individuals suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder should be targeted with programming to diminish sensation-seeking; potentially through criminal justice system intervention.

Testing Relationships Between Exposure to Violence and Substance Use: Comparing Cognitive and Mental Health Mediation and Integrating Propensity Score Matching

“…10,26,27,28 Despite this, understanding departures from typical developmental patterns of these constructs remains understudied, though some research has examined this topic and indicated the relevance of traumatic stress for driving heterogeneity. 29 A recent provides an outline of potential mechanisms underlying the relationship between traumatic stress and sensationseeking; 30 indicating that such exposures may lead to drives towards reliving of traumatic events, impaired risk recognition and insecure attachment and relational insecurity, among others. As such, individuals who experience traumatic stress like exposure to violence may develop post-traumatic risk-seeking, and it is established that this may be linked to justice-system involvement due to involvement in illegal behaviour, like substance use.…”