Abstract:

Purpose: The aim of this study is to examine the relationship between childhood trauma, defense mechanisms and happiness levels in medical school students. Method: This descriptive study was conducted with the students of medical school of a state university from 1 February and 15 March 2020. The questionnaire prepared to collect research data consisted of socio-demographic form, Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ), The defense style questionnaire (DSQ-40) and Oxford Happiness Questionnaire Short Form. Results: A poor, positive, significant relationship between participants' immature defense scores and total childhood mental trauma scores (r=0,280 p<0,001). While the sub-dimensions of childhood traumas explain 17.0% of the change in the happiness level score, this explanation rate increases to 32.9% when ego defense styles are added to the model. Conclusion and Suggestions: There was a weak correlation between defense styles and all sub-dimensions of childhood traumas. Therefore, it is necessary to take measures to prevent negative experiences in childhood. Children need to be educated so that they can report abuse. We recommend the education of families on parenting and child rearing, and the early identification and rehabilitation of abused children by health systems

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