Examining Relations Of Polytraumatization Typologies With Positive Memory Count And Phenomenology

Background and Objectives:Most individuals experience multiple potentially traumatizing events (PTEs); hence, it is important to consider count and types of PTEs (polytraumatization) in relation to post-trauma health. Notably, no research has examined polytraumatization typologies in relation to positive memory count and phenomenology. We examined (1) latent subgroupings of individuals based on PTE endorsements; and (2) relation of the optimal latent class solution to positive memory count and phenomenology. Design:Participants were 203 trauma-exposed adults (M-age = 35.40; 61.10%females); we used PTEs endorsed on the Life Events Checklist forDSM-5as indicators for analyses. Results:Latent class analyses indicated a three-class solution differing in quantity and quality of PTE types: Low Experience, Predominant Interpersonal PTEs, and Predominant Non-Interpersonal PTEs. Further, more positive memories predicted membership in the Low Experience vs. other classes; greater sensory details of a positive memory predicted membership in the Low Experience vs. the Predominant Interpersonal PTEs Classes; and greater accessibility of a positive memory predicted membership in the Predominant Interpersonal PTEs vs. the Predominant Non-Interpersonal PTEs Classes. Conclusions:Results indicated three meaningful subgroups endorsing differing levels/types of PTEs; count, sensory details, and accessibility of positive memories, pending further investigation, may differentiate these subgroups.