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The Role of Posttraumatic Stress and Problem Alcohol Involvement in University Academic Performance
Author(s) -
Bachrach Rachel L.,
Read Jennifer P.
Publication year - 2012
Publication title -
journal of clinical psychology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.124
H-Index - 119
eISSN - 1097-4679
pISSN - 0021-9762
DOI - 10.1002/jclp.21874
Subject(s) - mediation , psychology , clinical psychology , psychological intervention , posttraumatic stress , alcohol , psychiatry , biochemistry , chemistry , political science , law
Objective The present study examines how Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) during the first year of university affects academic performance and whether alcohol behavior mediates the relationship between PTSD and poor academic outcomes. Method University students (N = 1,002; 65% female; M age = 18.11) completed a baseline web survey, and 5 subsequent surveys throughout freshman year assessing variables of interest. Results Mediation analyses were not significant; however, students who developed PTSD had a lower grade point average and experienced more alcohol consequences by the end of freshman year. Unremitted PTSD and alcohol consequences were associated with leaving university by year's end. Conclusions Findings suggest that assessment of trauma‐related symptoms and alcohol behavior might benefit interventions aimed at students with academic difficulties. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Clin. Psychol. 68:843‐859, 2012