Testing the Trauma and Social Pathways Model of Psychosis as a Predictor
of Unusual Sensory Experiences
Abstract
Objectives: This current study investigated a model of trauma
and social pathways of psychosis in people with Unusual Sensory
Experiences (USEs) in the general population. Design: The study
used a cross-sectional, quantitative design, using an online survey
methodology with a self-selecting sample of people reporting multi-modal
unusual sensory experiences. Methods: Participants (n=149)
completed a survey examining trauma exposure, dissociative experiences,
attachment, social rank and 6 separate USEs. The trauma social pathways
model of psychosis was tested using hierarchical linear regression
models and Structured Equation Modelling (SEM). Results:
Hierarchical regression analyses found that all USEs were predicted by
trauma-exposure, anxious attachment, and dissociation. Social comparison
and compartmentalisation only predicted one mode of hallucinations and
overall neither were a strong component of the model. SEM analysis
indicated that overall the model was well fitted. The SEM analysis
emphasised a dual route to auditory hallucinations via disrupted
attachment or trauma-exposure, mutually mediated by dissociation.
Conclusion: The findings of this study underscore the
importance of addressing dissociation and attachment in understanding
the development of multi-modal USEs and in guiding the formulation and
intervention of clinical presentations of psychosis. Additionally,
fostering attachment security at a service level could improve
engagement with mental health services and promote safeness through
consistent, sensitive care.