From Fear to Fortitude: Differential Vulnerability to PTSD Among South African University Students

This study investigated the influence of fortigenic appraisals (i.e., positive appraisals of self, family, and significant others) on psychological outcomes following trauma exposure among students at a historically disadvantaged South African university. Participants included 218 undergraduate students who completed a demographic survey and 3 self-report questionnaires: Life Events Checklist, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Checklist, and Fortitude Questionnaire. A linear regression analysis was performed to determine the direct, indirect, mediating, and moderating roles of fortigenic appraisals on psychological outcomes. Fortigenic appraisals of self, family, and significant others were associated with PTSD symptom clusters. Positive appraisals of support from friends and family were associated with decreased symptoms of intrusive reexperiencing and avoidance, respectively. Positive appraisals of self and family were also associated with fewer alterations in arousal and reactivity. Irrespective of an individual's level of trauma exposure, more fortigenic appraisals of self, family, and significant others were associated with lower incidence of PTSD symptoms. Identifying and strengthening fortigenic appraisals may support intervention efforts and induce psychological strength in the face of adversity.