BackgroundBrief screening instruments appear to be a viable way of detecting post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) but none has yet been adequately validated.
AimsTo test and cross-validate a brief instrumentthat is simple to administer and score.
MethodForty-one survivors of a rai l crash were administered a questionnaire, followed by a structured clinical interview 1 week later.
ResultsExcellent prediction of a PTSD diagnosis was provided by respondents endorsing at least six re-experiencing or arousal symptoms, in any combination. The findings were replicated on data from a previous study of 157 crime victims.
ConclusionsPerformance of the new measure was equivalent to agreement achieved between two full clinical interviews.
File Type:
www
Categories:
Behavioral Health
