Distinguishing Complex PTSD from Borderline Personality Disorder among individuals with a history of sexual trauma: A latent class analysis

Abstract

IntroductionThere has been debate regarding whether Complex PTSD (CPTSD) is conceptually distinct from Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). ObjectiveTo assess whether ICD-11 CPTSD was distinguishable from BPD in a sample of sexual assault survivors. MethodA subsample of individuals (n=956), that selected sexual assault as an index trauma, were selected from a U.S. general population survey dataset. The distribution of PTSD, CPTSD and BPD symptomology was evaluated using latent class analysis (LCA). Multinomial logistic regression analyses were performed to evaluate whether various forms of child maltreatment and cumulative child maltreatment could discriminate between classes. ResultsCPTSD emerged as a distinct symptom profile within the sample. Conversely, BPD symptomology was evident in two classes but was accompanied by PTSD/CPTSD symptomology in each. Overall, five classes were identified that differed both quantitatively and qualitatively. Cumulative childhood maltreatment and physical neglect predicted CPTSD class membership. ConclusionThe findings suggest that CPTSD is distinct from BPD among a sample of individuals who have been shown to be at significant risk for both diagnoses. Further research is required to identify factors that distinguish CPTSD from BPD.