Conceptualization Of PTSD Research Articles

Psychometric properties of the Polish version of the Post-traumatic Stress Disorder Check List according to DSM-5 - PCL-5.

The changes in the structure of PTSD symptoms introduced in the DSM-5 classification require the use of an appropriate measurement tool. For this purpose, the PTSD Checklist (PCL-5) was constructed and popularized. In the presented studies, the psychometric properties of the Polish version of PCL-5 were assessed. In addition, referring to the controversy regarding the conceptualization of PTSD, various indicators of the fit of five PTSD structure models were checked based on our own research. People (N = 1035) who experienced various traumatic events participated in the anonymous research. All completed PCL-5 and another questionnaires used to assess the validity of PCl-5. The psychometric properties of the Polish version of PCL-5 are satisfactory. In the differential diagnosis the optimal point of discrimination is the result of ⩾ 33. The CFA results showed that all tested PTSD models met the basic fit criteria. The four-factor model explained 58% of the variance, including changes in arousal and reactivity of 36%. PCL-5 is a reliable and accurate tool for PTSD measurement. It is used for the initial diagnosis of PTSD. The conducted analyzes, despite demonstrating the diagnostical utility of PCL-5, do not indicate ultimately favor a single PTSD dimensionality model.

The Abyss Experience and the Trauma Complex: A Jungian Perspective of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Dissociation

ABSTRACT This article analyzes Carl G. Jung's theory of universal archetypes and complexes in the context of understanding traumatic experiences and the development of PTSD and dissociation. First, Jung's idea of psychological complexes as emotionally formed constellations of experiences centered around a unifying theme are discussed. Second, Jung set forth eight dimensions of constellated complexes, which are reviewed and compared to the core processes of PTSD, dissociation and their associated features. Based on comparisons to Jung's model of generic complexes, it is possible to define the Trauma Complex as a set of psychological processes which are archaic and typical, i.e., “archetypal.” The Abyss Experience is discussed as the core set of fear based emotional responses inherent in traumatic experiences and integral to understanding the unconscious dynamic of traumas impact to psychological functioning, with implications for psychotherapy. The implications of the Trauma Complex are discussed as a more inclusive psychodynamic conceptualization of PTSD and dissociative processes. The inner and outer worlds of trauma (i.e., conceptual paradigms) are explored from different etiological models. By identifying the underlying structures of the Trauma Complex and the Trauma Archetype, a wide array of post-traumatic intrapsychic dynamics involving the self, unconscious mechanisms, dissociative processes and symptom manifestations can be seen in a psychodynamic framework.

A factor analysis of the DSM-III post-traumatic stress disorder criteria

The authors factor analyzed DSM-III-based post-traumatic stress disorder symptom ratings made on 131 Vietnam-veteran PTSD patients. Five factors--termed Intrusive Thoughts and Their Effects, Increased Arousal, Impoverished Relationships, Guilt, and Cognitive Interference--emerged. The factor structure gave more support to Laufer, Brett and Gallops' conceptualization of PTSD than to the Horowitz, DSM-III, or DSM-III-R systems. It also generated suggestions for future editions of the diagnostic manual.