Trauma and fortitude amongst undergraduate students with disabilities

Abstract

Despite the increase in South African trauma studies over the years, few studies focus on distinct groups, such the group represented by students with disabilities (SWD) - 1% of the total student population at universities. Recent studies established widespread exposure to trauma amongst the general student population. This study investigated exposure to trauma amongst SWD and the role of fortitude in psychological outcomes. Fortitude is defined as the ability to manage stress well and to remain emotionally steady. The objectives of this study included: i) assessing the prevalence of exposure to trauma amongst SWD; ii) investigating the association between such exposure and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD); iii) investigating the role of fortitude in this association; and iv) identifying demographic correlation concerning exposure to trauma and PTSD.