Assessment of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder among Refugees: A Case of Kanyaruchinya Refugees Camp, Goma Democratic Republic of Congo

Abstract

Post-Traumatic Stress disorder (PTSD) is a psychological disorder that develops after experiencing a traumatic event (s). The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has witnessed some of the most heinous atrocities in recent history. However, only a minority of people develop symptoms that impair their normal functioning in the aftermath of a traumatic experience. This study’s objectives were to determine the prevalence of PTSD among refugees in the Kanyaruchinya Camp; to assess the level of depression as a comorbidity of PTSD among refugees in the Kanyaruchinya Camp, and to investigate the effect of PTSD among refugees in their daily life in the Kanyaruchinya Camp at the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The study adopted Social Cognitive theory and Behavior theory and used descriptive and quantitative approaches. Data was collected using a researcher’s developed questionnaire. The target population was adult refugees from 18 to 59 years. A sample of 311participants was selected using random sampling. Quantitative data was analyzed by SPSS-28 and the results revealed that 90% of the participants suffered from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, with most women (91%) experiencing moderate level of PTSD. There were no statistically significant differences between the socio-demographic factors such as age, gender, marital status, and education. There existed a negative statistically significant (p=0.005) association between education and PTSD levels. Findings showed that more learned refugees had higher proclivity to develop PTSD. Depression and PTSD scores had a direct positive correlation of 0.3. The study recommended, there was a need for individuals to be educated on the effects of PTSD, and Camp leaders should establish and enhance psychological support services within the camp.