A-101 PTSD and Personality Traits Influence the Relationship Between Memory Complaints and Memory Performance

Abstract

Abstract Objective Previous research has shown that post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptomatology may mediate the association between subjective cognitive complaints and objective cognitive performance, however, the precise nature of this mediation is not well understood. The present study aims to expand on these findings by focusing on memory processes and exploring the influence that personality variables may have on the mediational role of PTSD symptoms. Methods In a sample of 196 U.S. military service members and veterans, we administered the PTSD checklist (PCL), Personality Assessment Inventory (PAI), Memory Complaints Inventory (MCI), and Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status (RBANS). Results Overall MCI score (reflecting subjective memory complaints) was associated with both RBANS immediate (β= −0.15, SE = 0.06, p = 0.01) and delayed memory performance (β= −0.13, SE = 0.06, p = 0.02), but PTSD severity mediated both of these relationships (95% CI -0.14, −0.01; 95% CI -0.14, −0.02, respectively). Trait depression moderated the mediation path between subjective memory complaints and PTSD severity (β= −0.02, SE = 0.004, p < .001), but not the path between PTSD and either immediate or delayed memory performance (all p > .05). Conclusion Results suggest that targeting PTSD and depressive symptoms may be a promising treatment for those with subjective memory complaints.