The Threshold Non-linear Model for the Effects of Cumulative Stressors and Traumas: A Chained Cusp Catastrophe Analysis

Studying the macro-dynamics of traumatization should significantly advance psychological science. The current article tested the validity of the non-linear threshold model of the effects of cumulative stressors and traumas (CST). We used a combined data set of adults and adolescents from Egypt, Kuwait, and the UK (N = 968) that measured CST, internalizing, externalizing and thought disorders. We used the cusp catastrophe analysis that can identify the non-linear threshold dynamics. The non-linear cusp (threshold) model accounted for a much higher variance than the linear model, indicating the presence of threshold effects of CST on internalizing, externalizing and thought disorders. Interventions should target the multiply traumatized who are at risk for the cusp effects and not only those who are victims of the cusp. The study provided evidence for the utility of a paradigm shift to study the macro-dynamics of stressors and traumas, and not only their micro-dynamics.