Minimization-Denial in Retrospective Reports of Childhood Trauma Among Ghanaian University Students: Prevalence, Sociodemographic Factors, and Social Anxiety

Abstract Minimization-denial (MD) may influence retrospective reporting of childhood trauma, yet little is known about its prevalence, associated factors, and psychological significance in African populations. This study examined MD and its relationship with childhood trauma and social anxiety among Ghanaian university students. Participants completed the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire–Short Form (CTQ-SF) and measures of social interaction anxiety and social phobia. MD was defined by endorsement of at least one of the three CTQ-SF MD items. Multivariable logistic regression identified sociodemographic factors associated with MD, while multiple linear regression examined associations of MD and childhood trauma with social anxiety. Approximately 41.3% of participants endorsed MD. Female participants had higher odds of MD than males (AOR = 1.46, 95% CI: 1.07–2.00), and participants whose parents were married had higher odds than those whose parents were not married (AOR = 2.42, 95% CI: 1.61–3.63). After adjustment, MD was associated with higher social interaction anxiety scores (B = 3.50, 95% CI: 1.043–5.958, p = .005) and social phobia scores (B = 4.27, 95% CI: 1.423–7.126, p = .003). Living with one parent (B = Higher childhood trauma scores were also associated with both outcomes. MD was common and associated with sex, parental marital status, lower reported childhood trauma, and greater adjusted social anxiety. MD may provide meaningful information when interpreting retrospective childhood trauma reports but should not be considered definitive evidence of concealed trauma.