The Relationship between Social Support, Self-Efficacy and PTSD Symptoms among Trauma Survivors in Nigerias Niger Delta region

It is widely acknowledged that trauma exposure is associated with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), but not much is understood about the role of social support and self-efficacy in influencing survivors' experience of PTSD symptoms. Thus, the aim of this study was to examine the association between social support, self- efficacy, and PTSD symptoms among trauma survivors. Two hundred and eighty-one (281) adults comprising 131 (46.6%) males and 150 (53.4%) females within the age of 18 to 64 years (M=29.62, SD=7.05), all inhabitants of communities in the Niger Delta Region of Nigeria volunteered to participate. A cross-sectional design was adopted and measures used include the Social Support Scale (SPS), Self-Efficacy Scale (SES), and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Checklist-Civilian Version (PCL-C). Multiple regression analysis of data indicated a positive relationship between social support and PTSD symptoms, and a negative association of self-efficacy with PTSD symptoms. High level of social support was shown to increase PTSD symptom severity, whereas high self-efficacy reduced PTSD symptoms in trauma survivors. Clinical implication of the findings for mental health professionals in the Nigerian context in particular, and other relevant contexts globally was discussed.