This study investigated the nature and impact of traumatic experiences among Tibetan refugees in India. It explored the applicability of western conceptualizations of reactions to traumatic events among this cultural group. A randomly selected sample of refugee camp students was assessed on measures of psychological and physical complaints, and on impact as well as severity of traumatic experiences. Respondents had experienced multiple traumatic events. The majority reported ongoing health problems. More than half demonstrated symptoms of intrusion-avoidance. Those with more traumatic experiences reported more symptoms of anxiety and depression (psychologically and, particularly, somatically manifested). Cultural differences in types of experienced traumatic events and manifestations of distress are discussed, as are implications for cross-cultural trauma research using western conceptualizations and instruments.

cross-cultural Tibet Refugees posttraumatic stress trauma

China Tibet depression educational status refugee India mental health human Life Change Events Refugees injury Interview, Psychological anxiety neurosis mental stress Aged Humans Cross-Cultural Comparison Adolescent Severity of Illness Index male Avoidance Learning female Psychiatric Status Rating Scales cultural factor sensitivity and specificity Article Questionnaires adult major clinical study Western World Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic attitude to health