Background: First responders are at high risk of developing posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) due to repeated exposure to traumatic events. However, little is known about the prevalence and sociocultural determinants of PTSD among Asian first responders in North America, a population that may experience unique psychological, relational, and systemic stressors. This study aimed to (1) estimate the prevalence of PTSD among Asian-identified first responders in Canada and (2) examine individual, interpersonal, and systemic factors contributing to PTSD severity.

Methods: A total of 131 Asian-identified first responders (Mage = 34.78; 57.3% men) participated in this study.

Results: Findings revealed a high PTSD prevalence of 85.5% in this sample. At the individual level, greater emotional dysregulation and negative affect were significantly associated with higher PTSD severity (Bs= .24~.31; ps< .001; R2= 23.2%). At the interpersonal level, higher levels of insecure attachment (Bs= .57~.68; ps< .001; R2= 51.1%) were strongly linked to greater PTSD severity. At the systemic level, increased exposure to racial trauma (B= .32; p = .001; R2= 8.1%), including institutional injustice, was associated with heightened PTSD severity. Discussion: These findings underscore the substantial mental health burden faced by Asian first responders in Canada and highlight the need to address individual, interpersonal, and systemic factors contributing to PTSD. Culturally responsive interventions tailored to the unique experiences of this population may be critical in mitigating PTSD risk and improving mental health outcomes.

Authors:
Ling Jin, University of Calgary, Canada
Gabriel Zamudio, University of Calgary, Canada

About the Presenter(s)
Dr. Ling Jin is currently an assistant professor in the Counseling Psychology Msc/PHD program at the University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada.

See this presentation on the full schedule – Monday Schedule

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