| dc.description.abstract | Commemorations have an impact on society, but also on each individual that is attending. Previous research has indicated that a commemoration has the potential to reignite trauma and also elicit a negative emotional reaction. Therefore, the present study examines if post-traumatic stress (PTS) symptoms because of a war can predict a change in negative emotions during a commemoration. Additionally, it examines if social support has an influence on the relationship between PTS symptoms and negative emotions. In total 97 participants completed the Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Checklist (PCL-5), reported their negative emotions before and after watching the Dutch National Remembrance Day ceremony and answered two questions about social support. A multiple regression analysis was conducted to investigate the contribution of PTS symptoms on negative emotions when watching a commemoration while controlling for age and gender. Furthermore, the interaction effect of social support was examined through a moderator analysis. The results showed that experiencing more PTS symptoms was associated with an increase in negative emotions when watching a commemoration ceremony. The control variables age and gender appeared to have no significant effect. Moreover, social support did not play a role in the relationship between PTS symptoms and negative emotions in association with commemorating. These findings highlight the importance of understanding the impact of remembrance ceremonies and the effect it can have on the emotions of victims of war. Having more knowledge on this effect could be beneficial for supporting people with PTS complaints and adjusting commemorations to their needs. | |
