This article reports the findings of a study of 1500 New Zealand adults (536 male and 961 women) who were assessed by structured interview regarding their experience of traumatic events. A three stage cluster sampling methodology was utilised to select participants. Of those interviewed 61 percent reported exposure to a traumatic event during their lifetime. The most prevalent traumatic event experienced was the unexpected death of a close friend or relative. The least prevalent traumatic experiences were combat and natural disasters. Findings show that child and adult sexual assault was more common among women, while motor vehicle accidents and combat were more common among men. These results are consistent with prior research demonstrating gender differences in exposure to traumatic events. Findings further show that Māori individuals experienced a number of traumatic events to a greater extent than their Pākehā counterparts. The studies results are discussed within the New Zealand social context.

Stress and Health 20(3) August 2004 : 149-157