Date of Award

8-2025

Degree Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Department

Psychology

Abstract

The current study investigated the association between experienced islamophobia and trauma symptomatology, as well as the potential for Muslim identity to mitigate the effects of experienced islamophobia on PTSD symptoms in a community sample of adult Muslims in Georgia (N = 130). Consistent with our hypothesis, bivariate correlation analyses revealed that overall experienced islamophobia, as well as all three islamophobia dimensions (i.e., religious prejudice and stigmatization, bicultural identification and conflict, and perception of a racist environment), significantly and positively correlated with total PTSD symptoms. Moderation analyses revealed that overall experienced islamophobia significantly predicted total PTSD symptoms, but contrary to our hypothesis, overall Muslim identity and both identity subscales (i.e., identity exploration and identity belonging/commitment) did not emerge as moderators. One-way ANOVA and t-test analyses revealed significant group differences in experienced islamophobia and PTSD symptoms across gender, birthplace, and migrant status. Qualitative data was utilized to contextualize the quantitative responses regarding experiences of islamophobia, stress, and identity. This study adds to the minimal literature on how stressors like islamophobia can impact PTSD symptomatology, and the potential for distinct experiences across identities within Muslim communities. Furthermore, this study offers insight into how such factors work together to broadly influence mental health disparities among Muslims living in the United States.

DOI

https://doi.org/10.57709/37369773

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