DSM-5 alternative model for personality disorders trait domains and PTSD symptoms in a sample of highly traumatized African American women and a prospective sample of trauma center patients.

Abstract

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) has a specified precipitant (i.e., trauma), and thus, is particularly well-suited to examine risk and maintenance factors for the development of the disorder. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) alternative model of personality disorder (AMPD) is based, in part, on a dimensional trait model; previous research suggests that personality traits are related to PTSD symptoms. To date, there is little research examining this model with regard to PTSD symptoms, and such research could elucidate new strategies for identification and prevention. The present study investigates associations between AMPD traits and PTSD symptoms in a cross-sectional high-risk sample (N = 490; 100% female; 97.8% African American) and in a prospective, longitudinal sample of Level 1 trauma center patients (N = 185; 46.8% female; 72.5% African American). The Personality Inventory for DSM-5 Brief Form domains were significantly associated with PTSD total symptom severity and symptom clusters across both self-report and clinical interview measures. Personality Inventory for DSM-5 Negative Affectivity and Psychoticism emerged as significant predictors of concurrent PTSD. When prospectively predicting PTSD symptoms in the longitudinal cohort, Negative Affectivity and Psychoticism were significant predictors of PTSD symptom severity. These findings indicate how the DSM-5 AMPD pathological traits are associated with risk for stress-related disorders cross-sectionally and prospectively. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2021 APA, all rights reserved).