(PS10-27) Phenotypic differences in behavioral dysregulation among Veterans engaged in DBT: Consideration of Developmental Timing of Sexual Trauma Exposure

Abstract Text: Numerous studies demonstrate adverse sequelae following experiences of sexual assault (Dworkin et al., 2017; Rowland et al., 2023; Thompson et al., 2003; Walker et al., 2021). Findings suggest individuals with sexual trauma histories are at greater risk for emotion dysregulation. This relationship has been demonstrated for those who have experienced child sexual abuse (CSA; Walker et al., 2021) and military sexual trauma (MST; Allard et al., 2011; Lopez et al., 2022). Additionally, many individuals experience revictimization (Messman-Moore et al., 2013; Walker et al., 2021). Borderline personality disorder symptoms are marked by emotion dysregulation (APA, 2013) and associated with sexual trauma (Frost et al., 2018; Hyland et al., 2017; Resick et al., 2012). Little research has been conducted on the phenomenological differences between CSA and adult sexual assault (ASA) samples regarding emotion dysregulation among Veterans seeking Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). The current study aimed to elucidate potential differences in behavioral regulation strategies between both groups from a DBT-engaging clinical population.

Methods: Participants (54.7% female; 79.6% White) completed a semi-structured interview associated with BPD symptoms and completed surveys including the Borderline Symptom List-23 (Kleindienst et al., 2020) along with the supplement. Relationships among variables were subsequently assessed using bootstrapped SPSS multiple regression analysis, comparing outcomes between ASA and CSA as well as sexual trauma exposure and none. All relationships were analyzed with and without controlling for overall BSL-23 severity.

Results: Among the various behaviors, significant differences were found among disordered eating, disclosure of suicidal intent, and substance use. Specifically, there was a significant relationship between ASA and binging/vomiting (B = 0.414, p < 0.05) whereas there was a significant relationship between CSA and disclosure of suicidal intent (B = -0.287 , p < 0.05), regardless of symptom severity. However, an unexpected finding emerged. ASA had a negative association with substance abuse; this association was also observed when all sexual trauma was considered versus a control group (B = -0.535, p < 0.05.

Discussion: These results have implications for conceptualizing relationships of timing of sexual trauma and associated behaviors and behavioral phenotypes.