PTSD RESEARCH PROJECT
Research project into the incidence and treatment resources available for persons suffering with PTSD
THE COLLABORATION
Working with a local Doctor and Medicine Hat College, Global Village has established a Research project into the incidence and treatment resources available for immigrant individuals suffering with PTSD
Dr. Kadima arrived at the South Shore Clinic in Brooks and noted seemingly high number of immigrant individuals potentially with PTSD.
From Global Village, Ahmed Kassem, and
Dr. Kadima approached Medicine Hat College for interest in collaborative research.
From Medicine Hat College Main Campus,
Dr. Nicole Burnett, Donna Wood and
Dr. Elizabeth Pennefather-O’Brien worked with Dr. Kadima and Ahmed Kassem on a proposal for research.
THE STUDY
This research project focused on the incidence of PTSD in the rural immigrant population in Brooks and Newell County.
The objectives included:
DESCRIBE
Diversity of immigrant population
in rural southern Alberta
ASSESS
Prevalence and severity, of PTSD among the immigrants/refugees
IDENTIFYING
Types of stressful experiences that contribute to PTSD
THE MEASURES
1.
Demographics
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Gender
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Age
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Marital status
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Language
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Immigration Status
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Refugee Status
3.
Life Events Checklist (LEC-5)
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Given alongside the PCL-5
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Assesses frequency of exposure to traumatic events
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E.g., natural disaster, assault, accidents, combat, etc.
2.
PTSD Checklist (PCL-5)
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Measures presence of PTSD symptoms outlined in the DSM-5
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20 questions; rated on 4 point Likert scale, increasing in severity
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A score of 33+ indicates presence of PTSD symptoms (max score is 60)
3.
Culture Shock Questionnaire
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Assess issues frequently experienced when integrating into a new culture
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7 questions; rated in severity from 0-2points
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Rating of 7+ indicates presence of culture shock (Max Score 14)