Exploring Gendered Trauma Responses through Network Analysis: Adjustment, Sleep, and Eating Disturbances Post-Conflict

Background and Purpose: This study explores gender differences in psychological and behavioral responses to trauma in conflict-affected populations, focusing on adjustment difficulties, sleep disruptions, and eating disturbances. While research has identified gender-based disparities in trauma impact, few studies have examined the interconnectedness of symptoms using network analysis. This study seeks to map symptom patterns to better inform gender-responsive interventions. Method: Data were collected from 486 adults (53% women, 47% men) living in a conflict zone. Participants completed validated measures of trauma exposure, PTSD, depression, anxiety, stress, emotional eating, night eating, and sleep problems. Network analysis was used to assess how these symptoms clustered and interacted within gender-specific networks. Results: Women reported significantly higher levels of PTSD, emotional eating, sleep disturbances, adjustment difficulties, and stress. Men reported more direct trauma exposure but fewer psychological symptoms. For women, PTSD and adjustment difficulties were central nodes within a densely interconnected network involving anxiety, emotional eating, and sleep issues. Men’s symptom networks were less densely connected and more centered on trauma exposure. Conclusions: Gender shapes how trauma symptoms cluster and reinforce one another. Women’s symptom networks suggest the need for integrated, multi-symptom treatment models, while men's profiles may benefit from interventions focused on trauma exposure and direct stress responses. This study highlights the value of network analysis in identifying gender-specific patterns and informing more targeted, nuanced mental health interventions in conflict-affected contexts.