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International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health

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01-02-2019 | Original Article

Work-related threats and violence and post-traumatic symptoms in four high-risk occupations: short- and long-term symptoms

Authors: Lars Peter Andersen, Annie Hogh, Ask Elklit, Johan Hviid Andersen, Karin Biering

Published in: International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health | Issue 2/2019

Abstract

Objectives

To examine the associations between exposure to work-related violence and threats and subsequent PTSD among males and females in four high-risk occupations in human service work. Furthermore, we examined the modifying effect of coping style and self-efficacy.

Methods

Questionnaire data were collected in 2011 and in 2015 from 2678 employees working in psychiatric wards, in the elder sector, in special schools and in the Prison and Probation Service (PPS). Exposure to work-related violence and threats was measured in 2011, while PTSD was measured in 2011 and 2015 by the Impact of Event Scale-Revised. To assess the associations, logistic regression was conducted, adjusted for bullying, sexual harassment, negative acts, conflicts at work, other private traumas and baseline PTSD.

Results

There was an association between work-related threats and PTSD in 2011 and 2015. Furthermore, there was an association between work-related violence and PTSD in 2011. The associations were strongest in the PPS. Male staff had a higher risk for PTSD. Neither coping style nor self-efficacy did modify the associations between exposure to work-related violence and threats and subsequent PTSD.

Conclusion

The prevention of PTSD following work-related violence and threats should first of all be based on reducing the risk of work-related violence. In addition, supervisors should be trained to detect symptoms of PTSD after exposure to traumatic events.

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Title: Work-related threats and violence and post-traumatic symptoms in four high-risk occupations: short- and long-term symptoms
Authors: Lars Peter Andersen
Annie Hogh
Ask Elklit
Johan Hviid Andersen
Karin Biering
Publication date: 01-02-2019
Publisher: Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Published in: International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health / Issue 2/2019
Print ISSN: 0340-0131
Electronic ISSN: 1432-1246
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00420-018-1369-5

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Work-related threats and violence and post-traumatic symptoms in four high-risk occupations: short- and long-term symptoms

Abstract

Objectives

Methods

Results

Conclusion

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Objectives

Methods

Results

Conclusion

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