Structural relations between DSM-5 PTSD and major depression symptoms in military soldiers

Posttraumatic stress and depression symptom classes in parents of trauma-exposed children: a transdiagnostic perspective using pooled individual participant data

Background: In the aftermath of child trauma, post-traumatic stress (PTS) and depression symptoms often co-occur among trauma exposed children and their parents. Studies have used latent class analysis (LCA) to examine PTS and depression symptoms and identify homogeneous subgroups among trauma exposed children. However, little is known about subgroups or classes of PTS and depression reactions of parents of traumatised children.Objectives: (1) Determine PTS and depression symptom classes at 2-9 months post-trauma, and (2) to examine sociodemographic covariates among parents of trauma exposed children.Methods: Using harmonised individual participant data (n = 702) from eight studies (Australia, UK, US) included in the Prospective studies of Acute Child Trauma and Recovery Data Archive (PACT/R), we modelled these phenomena at the symptom level using LCA.Results: Our LCA yielded three solutions: 'high internalizing symptom' class (11%); 'low PTS-high depression' class (17%); and 'low internalizing symptom' class (72%). Parents of children in the 'low PTS-high depression' class were more likely to have children of older age and be part of an ethnic minority, compared to the 'low internalizing symptoms' class. Mothers were more likely to be in the 'high internalizing symptom' class compared to the 'low internalizing symptoms' class.Conclusions: These findings reveal a qualitative structure and relationship between depression and PTS symptoms that highlights the importance of assessing and targeting a broad range of internalising symptoms in post-trauma psychological treatment.

P3a amplitude to trauma-related stimuli reduced after successful trauma-focused PTSD treatment

An elevated P3a amplitude to trauma-related stimuli is strongly associated with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), yet little is known about whether this response to trauma-related stimuli is affected by treatment that decreases PTSD symptoms. As an analysis of secondary outcome measures from a randomized controlled trial, we investigated the latency and amplitude changes of the P3a in responses in a three-condition oddball visual task that included trauma-related (combat scenes) and trauma-unrelated (threatening animals) distractors. Fifty-five U.S. veterans diagnosed with combat-related PTSD were randomized to receive either active or sham repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS). All received cognitive processing therapy, CPT+A, which requires a written account of the index trauma. They were tested before and 6 months after protocol completion. P3a amplitude and response time decreases were driven largely by the changes in the responses to the trauma-related stimuli, and this decrease correlated to the decrease in PTSD symptoms. The amplitude changes were greater in those who received rTMS + CPT than in those who received sham rTMS + CPT, suggesting that rTMS plays beneficial role in reducing arousal and threat bias, which may allow for more effective engagement in trauma-focused PTSD treatment.

Causal discovery replicates symptomatic and functional interrelations of posttraumatic stress across five patient populations

Introduction

Approximately half of individuals with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may meet criteria for other psychiatric disorders, and PTSD symptoms are associated with diminished health and psychosocial functioning. However, few studies examine the longitudinal progression of PTSD symptoms concurrent with related symptom domains and functional outcomes, such that may neglect important longitudinal patterns of symptom progression beyond PTSD specifically.

Methods

Therefore, we used longitudinal causal discovery analysis to examine the longitudinal interrelations among PTSD symptoms, depressive symptoms, substance abuse, and various other domains of functioning in five longitudinal cohorts representing veterans (n = 241), civilians seeking treatment for anxiety disorders (n = 79), civilian women seeking treatment for post-traumatic stress and substance abuse (n = 116), active duty military members assessed 0-90 days following TBI (n = 243), and civilians with a history of TBI (n = 43).

Results

The analyses revealed consistent, directed associations from PTSD symptoms to depressive symptoms, independent longitudinal trajectories of substance use problems, and cascading indirect relations from PTSD symptoms to social functioning through depression as well as direct relations from PTSD symptoms to TBI outcomes.

Discussion

Our findings suggest PTSD symptoms primarily drive depressive symptoms over time, tend to show independence from substance use symptoms, and may cascade into impairment in other domains. The results have implications for refining conceptualization of PTSD co-morbidity and can inform prognostic and treatment hypotheses about individuals experiencing PTSD symptoms along with co-occurring distress or impairment.

Network analysis of distress, suicidality, and resilience in a treatment seeking sample of first responders

INTRODUCTION

First responders are routinely and regularly exposed to traumatic events that can clinically manifest with a symptom constellation of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), generalized anxiety, depression, and suicidality.

METHODS

We used network analysis to examine baseline data from treatment seeking first responders (n = 308) to examine the interrelatedness of those constructs, including a measure of resilience. We estimated two models: a regularized partial correlation network and a Bayesian Directed Acyclic Graph (DAG).

RESULTS

The models reveal converging evidence highlighting the central role of negative alterations in cognitions and mood PTSD cluster along with affective depression. These nodes did not significantly differ, though they were among the strongest in the partial correlation network and shared the most variance with the other nodes. The DAG results suggested that the negative alterations in cognitions and mood PTSD cluster predicted downstream constructs of affective depression; intrusion, hyperarousal, and avoidance PTSD clusters; and resilience. Only resilience and affective depression exhibited direct effects on suicidality. Both somatic depression and suicidality were endogenous endpoints in the DAG. Resilience exhibited an inverse path to suicide. However, resilience was relatively independent of the other constructs in the models and the DAG suggested that it was a consequence of PTSD related distress.

LIMITATIONS

The data is cross-sectional in nature that should be followed up in longitudinal studies.

CONCLUSION

Findings are discussed in respect to the role of distress and emotional dysregulation as common factors underlying a broad range of internalizing problems.

An examination of the heterogeneity of the relationships between posttraumatic stress disorder, self-compassion and gratitude

Previous research has found both self-compassion and gratitude to be protective against overall posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptom severity. PTSD is a highly heterogeneous disorder; however, it is unclear if these protective constructs are differentially associated with each cluster of PTSD. The present study examined differences in the association of self-compassion and gratitude with the four clusters of PTSD as indicated by the DSM-5. Participants were 1424 trauma-exposed individuals recruited via Amazon's Mechanical Turk. The mean age of participants was 31.49 (SD = 11.25) years old, and 55.3% of the sample identified as female. A structural equation model (SEM) approach was used to examine relationships between factors of gratitude, self-compassion and the four PTSD symptom clusters. A two-factor model of self-compassion best fits the data. Both the self-compassion and gratitude factors were significantly associated with all symptom clusters of PTSD. Wald chi-square tests indicated self-compassion and gratitude to have the strongest association with negative alterations in cognitions and mood (NACM) PTSD symptoms. These findings may have important implications for treatment targets to reduce specific symptoms of PTSD, particularly in PTSD symptoms related to negative affect.

Order effects in PTSD network analysis: important implications for diagnostic conceptualization, treatment refinement, and research

BACKGROUND

For decades confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) has been the preeminent method to study the underlying structure of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD); however, methodological limitations of CFA have led to the emergence of other analytic approaches. In particular, network analysis has become a gold standard to investigate the structure and relationships between PTSD symptoms. A key methodological limitation, however, which has significant clinical implications, is the lack of data on the potential impact of item order effects on the conclusions reached through network analyses.

METHODS

The current study, involving a large sample (N = 5055) of active duty army soldiers following deployment to Iraq, assessed the vulnerability of network analyses and prevalence rate to item order effects. This was done by comparing symptom networks of the DSM-IV PTSD checklist items to these same items distributed in random order. Half of the participants rated their symptoms on traditionally ordered items and half the participants rated the same items, but in random order and interspersed between items from other validated scales. Differences in prevalence rate and network composition were examined.

RESULTS

The prevalence rate differed between the ordered and random item samples. Network analyses using the ordered survey closely replicated the conclusions reached in the existing network analyses literature. However, in the random item survey, network composition differed considerably.

CONCLUSION

Order effects appear to have a significant impact on conclusions reached from PTSD network analysis. Prevalence rates were also impacted by order effects. These findings have important diagnostic and clinical treatment implications.

Post-traumatic stress disorder: a psychiatric disorder requiring urgent attention

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a severe and heterogenous psychiatric disorder that was first defined as a mental disorder in 1980. Currently, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5) and the International Classification of Diseases 11th Edition (ICD-11) offer the most widely accepted diagnostic guidelines for PTSD. In both diagnostic categories, experiencing a traumatic event (TE) is the necessary criterion for diagnosing PTSD. The TEs described in the DSM-5 include actual or threatened death, serious injury, sexual violence, and other extreme stressors, either directly or indirectly. More than 70% of adults worldwide are exposed to a TE at least once in their lifetime, and approximately 10% of individuals develop PTSD after experiencing a TE. The important features of PTSD are intrusion or re-experiencing fear memories, pervasive sense of threat, active avoidance, hyperarousal symptoms, and negative alterations of cognition and mood. Individuals with PTSD have high comorbidities with other psychiatric diseases, including major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and substance use disorder. Multiple lines of evidence suggest that the pathophysiology of PTSD is complex, involving abnormal neural circuits, molecular mechanisms, and genetic mechanisms. A combination of both psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy is used to treat PTSD, but has limited efficacy in patients with refractory PTSD. Because of the high prevalence, heavy burden, and limited treatments, PTSD is a psychiatric disorder that requires urgent attention. In this review, we summarize and discuss the diagnosis, prevalence, TEs, pathophysiology, and treatments of PTSD and draw attention to its prevention.

Cohort profile: the Ohio Army National Guard Mental Health Initiative (OHARNG-MHI)

PURPOSE

Rates of mental disorders in the United States military have increased in recent years. National Guard members may be particularly at risk for mental disorders, given their dual role as citizen-soldiers and their increased involvement in combat deployments during recent conflicts. The Ohio Army National Guard Mental Health Initiative (OHARNG-MHI) was launched to assess the prevalence, incidence, and potential causes and consequences of mental disorders in this unique population.

METHODS

OHARNG-MHI is a decade-long dynamic cohort study that followed over 3,000 National Guard members yearly through structured telephone interviews.

RESULTS

Findings thus far have applied a pre-, peri-, post-deployment framework, identifying factors throughout the life course associated with mental disorders, including childhood events and more recent events, both during and outside of deployment. An estimated 61% of participants had at least one mental disorder in their lifetime, the majority of which initiated prior to military service. Psychiatric comorbidity was common, as were alcohol use and stressful events. Latent class growth analyses revealed four distinct trajectory paths of both posttraumatic stress and depression symptoms across four years. Only 37% of soldiers with probable past-year mental disorders accessed mental health services in the subsequent year, with substance use disorders least likely to be treated.

CONCLUSION

Strengths of this study include a large number of follow-up interviews, detailed data on both military and non-military experiences, and a clinical assessment subsample that assessed the validity of the telephone screening instruments. Findings, methods, and procedures of the study are discussed, and collaborations are welcome.

Gender as a moderator of the association of military sexual trauma and posttraumatic stress symptoms

OBJECTIVE

The current study examined the moderating role of gender on the association of military sexual trauma (MST) type (harassment-only vs. assault) and posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) using the 6-factor Anhedonia Model.

METHODS

Participants were 1321 service members/veterans. Two-part hurdle models assessed the moderating role of gender on the association of MST type with the presence (at least "moderate" symptoms endorsed within each cluster) or severity of PTSS and symptom clusters.

RESULTS

Among those who experienced assault MST, women were at higher risk for the presence of intrusive, avoidance, negative affect, and anhedonia symptoms, and higher risk for more severe negative affect symptoms. Among those who experienced harassment-only MST, men were at higher risk of more severe PTSS symptoms overall and in the intrusive and dysphoric arousal symptom clusters. No other significant differences were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Gathering information on MST type may be helpful in treatment planning.

Combat stress in a small-scale society suggests divergent evolutionary roots for posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms

Military personnel in industrialized societies often develop posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) during combat. It is unclear whether combat-related PTSD is a universal evolutionary response to danger or a culture-specific syndrome of industrialized societies. We interviewed 218 Turkana pastoralist warriors in Kenya, who engage in lethal cattle raids, about their combat experiences and PTSD symptoms. Turkana in our sample had a high prevalence of PTSD symptoms, but Turkana with high symptom severity had lower prevalence of depression-like symptoms than American service members with high symptom severity. Symptoms that facilitate responding to danger were better predicted by combat exposure, whereas depressive symptoms were better predicted by exposure to combat-related moral violations. The findings suggest that some PTSD symptoms stem from an evolved response to danger, while depressive PTSD symptoms may be caused by culturally specific moral norm violations.

Efficacy of third wave cognitive behavioral therapies in the treatment of posttraumatic stress: A meta-analytic study

The purpose of the present study was to examine, via meta-analysis, the efficacy of third wave therapies in reducing posttraumatic stress (PTS) symptoms. A secondary aim was to identify whether treatment efficacy was moderated by treatment type, treatment duration, use of exposure, use of intent-to-treat samples, and treatment format (i.e., individual, group, both). Risk of bias was also assessed. A literature search returned 37 studies with a pooled sample of 1268 participants that met study inclusion criteria. The mean differences between pre- and post-treatment PTS symptoms were estimated using a random effects model (i.e., uncontrolled effect). Additionally, in a subset of studies that utilized a control condition, a controlled effect in which pre- to post-treatment PTS symptom changes accounted for symptom changes in the control condition was calculated. The overall uncontrolled effect of third wave therapies in reducing PTS symptoms was medium to large (Hedges' g = 0.88 [0.72-1.03]). Treatment type, use of intent-to-treat analysis, inclusion of exposure, and format moderated the uncontrolled effect, but treatment duration did not. The controlled effect of third wave therapies was small to large in size (Hedges' g = 0.50 [0.20-0.80]). Findings suggest that third wave therapies demonstrate enough promise in treating individuals with PTS symptoms to warrant further investigation. Implications and suggestions for future third wave research are discussed.

The short-term dynamics of posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms during the acute posttrauma period

BACKGROUND

The manner in which posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) develops remains largely unknown. PTSD is comprised of 20 symptoms across 4 clusters. These clusters were hypothesized to reflect a failure of recovery model in which intrusive symptoms appear first. Intrusive symptoms led to avoidance of trauma-related stimuli, which resulted in sustained arousal. The sustained arousal ultimately led to dysphoria.

METHODS

This hypothesized symptom progression was evaluated during the acute posttrauma period (the first 30 days postevent). Participants (N = 80) reported their PTSD symptoms for 30 days via mobile devices. Using a short-term dynamic modeling framework, a temporal and contemporaneous model of PTSD symptoms was obtained.

RESULTS

In the temporal network, a fear-conditioning component was identified that supported the hypothesized set of relations among symptom clusters. The contemporaneous network was classified by two subnetworks. The first corresponded to a fear-conditioning model that included symptoms of intrusions and avoidance. The second included symptoms of dysphoria and arousal.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that, after a trauma, there may be a fear-conditioning process that involves intrusions, avoidance, and arousal symptoms. Dysphoric symptoms were also present but developed as a partially distinct component.

The influence of posttraumatic stress disorder and recurrent major depression on risk-taking propensity following trauma script exposure among patients with substance use disorders

Although evidence suggests that risk-taking among individuals with co-occurring posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and substance use disorder (SUD) may be precipitated by trauma-related emotional distress, studies have yet to examine moderators of this effect. One moderator worth investigating is recurrent major depressive disorder (MDD), given its influence on emotional responding and subsequent behavior. This study examined the moderating role of recurrent MDD in the relation of PTSD to risk-taking propensity following neutral and trauma scripts among SUD patients. Participants were 193 patients with and without current PTSD and/or recurrent MDD in residential SUD treatment. Risk-taking propensity, as assessed through the Balloon Analogue Risk Task (BART), was evaluated following a neutral script and a personalized trauma script. A significant script by PTSD by recurrent MDD interaction was found. Participants with PTSD and recurrent MDD exhibited significantly lower risk-taking following the trauma script relative to participants with PTSD but no recurrent MDD. Moreover, participants with PTSD and recurrent MDD exhibited a significantly smaller increase in risk-taking following the trauma script (relative to the neutral script) than participants with PTSD but no recurrent MDD. Participants with PTSD and recurrent MDD did not differ significantly from participants without PTSD. Results provide support for the context-dependent nature of risk-taking among PTSD-SUD patients without (vs. with) recurrent MDD. Results also highlight the importance of considering the presence of recurrent MDD in research and/or clinical work with SUD patients with PTSD.

Symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder in patients with functional neurological symptom disorder

OBJECTIVE

To describe prevalence and relevance of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) symptoms in Functional Neurological Symptom Disorder (FNSD) and explore differences in PTSD symptom scores between subgroups with Psychogenic Non-Epileptic Seizures (PNES) or other FNSD.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study evaluated data from 430 consecutive patients referred to a specialist psychotherapy service (69.3% female, 56% with PNES/44% with other FNSD). We analysed self-reported symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD Civilian Checklist, PCLC), depression (PHQ-9), anxiety (GAD-7), physical symptoms (PHQ-15), social functioning (WSAS), and health related quality of life (SF-36). Relationships between PTSD scores, diagnosis and other measures were examined. Independent associations of PTSD scores were identified using multilinear regression.

RESULTS

Symptom scores likely to indicate clinical PTSD were reported by 60.7% of patients with no difference between PNES and FNSD subgroups. Those potentially symptomatic of PTSD were less likely to be living with a partner OR 2.95 (95% CI 1.83-4.04), or to be in employment OR 2.23 (95% CI 1.46-3.41) than less symptomatic patients. There were higher levels of anxiety (r = 0.62), depression (r = 0.63) and somatic symptoms (r = 0.45) and lower quality of life scores (r = 0.48) in patients with high PTSD symptom scores (p < .0001 for all comparisons). Anxiety, depression and somatic symptoms made independent contributions to the variance of PTSD symptoms.

CONCLUSION

There is a high prevalence of PTSD symptoms in patient with FNSD regardless of whether they have PNES. Trauma and PTSD symptoms are negatively correlated with quality of life. Self-report instruments for anxiety, depression and somatic symptoms may predict the presence of PTSD.

Cyr K, Sareen J, Elhai JD, Zamorski MA. Comorbidity Patterns of Psychiatric Conditions in Canadian Armed Forces Personnel

OBJECTIVE

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is often accompanied by other mental health conditions, including major depressive disorder (MDD), substance misuse disorders, and anxiety disorders. The objective of the current study is to delineate classes of comorbidity and investigate predictors of comorbidity classes amongst a sample of Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) Regular Force personnel.

METHODS

Latent class analyses (LCAs) were applied to cross-sectional data obtained between April and August 2013 from a nationally representative random sample of 6700 CAF Regular Force personnel who deployed to the mission in Afghanistan.

RESULTS

MDD was the most common diagnosis (8.0%), followed by PTSD (5.3%) and generalized anxiety disorder (4.7%). Of those with a mental health condition, LCA revealed 3 classes of comorbidity: a highly comorbid class (8.3%), a depressed-only class (4.6%), and an alcohol use-only class (3.1%). Multinomial logit regression showed that women (adjusted relative risk ratio [ARRR] = 2.77; 95% CI, 2.13 to 3.60; P < 0.01) and personnel reporting higher trauma exposure (ARRR = 4.18; 95% CI, 3.13 to 5.57; P < 0.01) were at increased risk of membership in the comorbid class compared to those without a mental health condition. When compared to those with no mental health condition, experiencing childhood abuse increased the risk of being in any comorbidity class.

CONCLUSIONS

Results provide further evidence to support screening for and treatment of comorbid mental health conditions. The role of sex, childhood abuse, and combat deployment in determining class membership may also prove valuable for clinicians treating military-related mental health conditions.

PTSD symptoms are differentially associated with general distress and physiological arousal: Implications for the conceptualization and measurement of PTSD

BACKGROUND

The primary purpose of this study was to examine the place of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) vis-à-vis the external dimensions of general distress and physiological arousal.

METHODS

Using data collected from veterans of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan (N = 1350), latent variable covariance structure modeling was employed to compare correlations of PTSD symptom clusters and individual PTSD symptoms with general distress and physiological arousal.

RESULTS

Each PTSD symptom cluster, and 17 of 20 individual PTSD symptoms were more strongly associated with general distress than with physiological arousal. However, moderate to strong associations were also found between physiological arousal and both PTSD clusters and symptoms.

LIMITATIONS

Findings are based on self-reported data elicited from a single sample of veterans with substantial PTSD symptoms. Replication, particularly by clinician interview, is necessary. Generalizability to other traumatized populations is unknown.

CONCLUSIONS

Results offer support, with caveats, for viewing PTSD as a distress disorder. Findings are not consistent with the position that PTSD is a hybrid disorder with some features reflecting hyperarousal and others indicative of general distress. Results have implications for the conceptualization and measurement of PTSD.

The symptoms at the center: Examining the comorbidity of posttraumatic stress disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and depression with network analysis

Comorbid mental health disorders are highly common in trauma-exposed individuals with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) among the most common co-occurring conditions. Network models of psychopathology offer a novel method to understand how this comorbidity manifests. The present study examined the presence of symptom communities (groups of highly connected symptoms) within a network of these disorders and hub symptoms (symptoms that connect such communities). Cross-sectional data were obtained from a community sample (N = 1184) of trauma exposed adults. Network analyses identified 5 communities: 1 containing all depression and GAD symptoms and 4 for PTSD. The PTSD communities corresponded to symptoms of intrusion and avoidance, hyperarousal, dysphoria, and negative affect. These communities had varying levels of connectivity to the Depression & GAD community. Symptoms of GAD (inability to relax) and PTSD (restricted or diminished positive emotion) were identified as key hub symptoms for the network. The results suggest symptoms of depression and GAD are highly interrelated and that PTSD is heterogeneous. The comorbidity among these diagnoses is thought to stem from their overlap with negative affect.

Predictors of the co-occurrence of posttraumatic stress disorder and depressive disorder in psychiatric outpatients

INTRODUCTION

We explored the predictors of co-occurring depressive disorder (DD) in individuals with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in an outpatient psychiatric setting.

METHODS

Participants (N = 170; mean age = 40.78, SD = 16.15 years; 58.8% women) included 71 adult patients who met the criteria for a PTSD diagnosis and 99 adult patients who met the criteria for a comorbid PTSD/DD diagnosis. Potential predictors included trauma types (focusing on trauma characteristics), history of previous traumatic experiences (i.e., the number of lifetime traumatic events before current trauma and childhood maltreatment), and post-trauma variables (i.e., elapsed time since the current traumatic event and the severity of PTSD symptoms).

RESULTS

A logistic regression analysis-including demographic variables, trauma types, history of previous traumatic experiences, and post-trauma variables that showed significant differences between the two groups-was conducted. The effects of repeated trauma (OR = 13.18, 95% CI [3.44, 50.48], p < .001), the number of lifetime traumatic events (OR = 1.04, 95% CI [1.01, 1.51], p = .044), and childhood maltreatment (OR = 1.23, 95% CI [1.01, 1.51], p = .004) were associated with a greater likelihood of concurrent PTSD/DD.

CONCLUSION

Cumulative characteristics such as maltreatment and the number of lifetime traumatic events before the current trauma as well as repetitive properties of the most recent trauma present a key risk factor for co-occurring PTSD/DD.

Positive and negative affect in the daily life of world trade center responders with PTSD: An ecological momentary assessment study

OBJECTIVE

The ability to experience positive affect (PA) has clinical and quality of life implications, particularly in vulnerable populations such as trauma-exposed disaster responders. Low PA is included in the diagnostic criteria for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), however evidence for PA reduction in PTSD has been mixed. In contrast, negative affect (NA) has consistently been found to be elevated among individuals with PTSD. Multiday, ecological momentary assessment (EMA) can provide more ecologically valid evidence about experiences of affect; however, no such studies have been conducted in traumatized individuals with PTSD to date.

METHOD

World Trade Center (WTC) responders (N = 202) oversampled for the presence of PTSD were recruited from the WTC Health Program. Participants were administrated the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV and the PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 at baseline, then completed EMA surveys of affect four times a day over seven consecutive days.

RESULTS

Participants with current PTSD (19.3% of the sample) showed significantly higher levels of daily NA compared with those without PTSD. However, there was no group difference in daily PA, nor was PA associated with a dimensional measure of PTSD.

CONCLUSION

Results suggest that for chronic PTSD among disaster responders, positive emotions are not inhibited across daily living. Such findings add to evidence suggesting that PA reduction may not be diagnostically relevant to PTSD, whereas NA remains an important target for therapeutic interventions. Moreover, results show that WTC responders can experience and benefit from positive emotion, even if they continue to have PTSD symptoms. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2020 APA, all rights reserved).

Posttraumatic stress disorder clusters and suicidal ideation

BACKGROUND

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is associated with suicidal ideation and behavior. However, less is known about how the PTSD symptom clusters, namely alterations in arousal and reactivity (AAR), negative alterations in cognitions and mood (NACM), avoidance, and intrusion, uniquely relate to suicidal ideation. This study aimed to characterize the associations among suicidal ideation and these symptom clusters.

METHODS

Study 1 (n = 346) and Study 2 (n = 194) included community members and treatment-seeking adults at an anxiety specialty clinic, respectively. Participants completed measures of trauma exposure, PTSD symptoms, and suicidal ideation.

RESULTS

In both studies, suicidal ideation significantly and positively correlated with all PTSD factors. In Study 1, Wald tests of parameter constraints indicated that NACM and AAR had the strongest associations with suicidal ideation, followed by intrusion and avoidance. Results were replicated when restricting the sample to individuals with probable PTSD. In Study 2, suicidal ideation significantly and positively correlated with all PTSD factors; there were no differences in the strength of the suicidal ideation-PTSD factors relations.

LIMITATIONS

The studies were cross-sectional and relied on a single-item measure of suicidal ideation.

DISCUSSION

All PTSD factors significantly and positively correlated with suicidal ideation, and the NACM and AAR PTSD clusters were most strongly associated with suicidal ideation in Study 1. Therefore, clinicians should be cautious to thoroughly screen patients with elevations on these PTSD cluster scores for suicide risk.

Relations between PTSD and depression symptom clusters in samples differentiated by PTSD diagnostic status

Co-occurring posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression following traumatic experiences are cumulatively associated with functional impairment. To examine mechanisms for the PTSD-depression comorbidity, we investigated their cluster-level associations. Using data obtained from Amazon's Mechanical Turk platform, 368 trauma-exposed participants were split into two subsamples: those with (n = 163) and without (n = 185) probable PTSD. In both subsamples, confirmatory factor analyses indicated an optimal seven-factor PTSD Hybrid Model. Results of Wald tests of parameter constraints indicated that, in both subsamples, PTSD's dysphoric arousal cluster strongly related to somatic depression compared to all/most other PTSD Hybrid Model clusters. Additionally, in both subsamples, PTSD's negative affect, externalizing behaviors, and anhedonia clusters each strongly related to non-somatic depression compared to PTSD's anxious arousal cluster. Our results indicated that PTSD's dysphoric arousal symptoms mainly accounted for PTSD's shared variance with somatic depression, while the negative alterations in cognitions and mood (NACM)/dysphoria and arousal symptoms (primarily externalizing behaviours) mainly accounted for PTSD's shared variance with non-somatic depression. Our findings have implications for the discussion on PTSD's specific/non-specific clusters tied to diagnostic modifications, for understanding mechanisms underlying PTSD-depression comorbidity, and for the use of transdiagnostic and multi-component treatment protocols for PTSD-depression symptoms.

Posttraumatic stress disorder and positive memories: Clinical considerations

Encoding and retrieval difficulties, and avoidance of both traumatic and positive memories, are associated with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms. However, most PTSD research and clinical work has solely examined the role of traumatic memories in the maintenance/resolution of PTSD symptoms. This review provides a comprehensive discussion of the literature on positive memories and PTSD. First, we review theories and evidence on the relations between trauma, PTSD, and memory processes (particularly positive memories). Next, we propose a conceptual model that integrates evidence from experimental and positive/memory-based intervention research and highlights hypothesized mechanisms underlying the potential effectiveness of targeting positive memories in PTSD interventions. Specifically, we discuss how targeting positive memories could (1) increase positive affect and reduce negative affect, (2) correct negative cognitions, (3) increase specificity of retrieving autobiographical memories, and (4) be effectively integrated/sequenced with and enhance the effects of trauma-focused interventions. Lastly, we suggest clinical research avenues for investigating the relations between positive memories and PTSD, to possibly alter the current PTSD intervention paradigm focused only on traumatic memories. Overall, our proposed model drawing from experimental and intervention research, and outlining potential effects of targeting positive memories to reduce PTSD severity, needs further empirical investigation.

Heterogeneity in the Strength of the Relation Between Social Support and Post-Trauma Psychopathology

Potentially traumatic events (PTEs) increase risk for psychopathology, including posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), major depressive disorder (MDD), and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Social support (SS) is associated with reduced symptoms for each disorder. Each disorder, however, is highly heterogeneous such that they are comprised of clusters of different symptoms. It is unclear if SS is associated with all clusters equally. The current study examined the relation between SS and the symptom clusters of each disorder. Participants completed a battery of self-report assessments for PTSD, MDD, GAD, and SS. All participants experienced a Criterion A traumatic event. Although SS was significantly associated with all symptom clusters, the strength of relations varied. The relation between SS and MDD-affective was significantly stronger than its association with all other factors. The relations between SS and GAD, MDD-somatic, PTSD-AAR, and PTSD-NACM did not significantly differ. These relations were stronger than the relations between SS and the remaining PTSD factors. There was no significant difference in the relations between SS and PTSD-intrusions or PTSD-avoidance. These results suggest that SS is more closely aligned to specific aspects of post-trauma psychopathology.

Anxiety sensitivity cognitive concerns drive the relation between anxiety sensitivity and symptoms of depression

Depression is typically treated as a homogeneous construct despite evidence for distinct cognitive, affective, and somatic symptom dimensions. Anxiety sensitivity (AS; the fear of consequences of anxiety symptoms) is a cognitive risk factor implicated in the development of depressive symptoms. However, it is unclear how lower order AS dimensions (i.e. physical, cognitive, and social concerns) relate to depressive symptom factors. Confirmatory factor analysis, followed by structural equation modeling, were conducted to examine the factor structure of depression and to then examine the relations between these factors and the lower order factors of AS. This study was conducted in a sample of 374 adults (M age = 35.5, 54.3% female) with elevated levels of psychopathology (89.2% meeting criteria for at least one DSM-5 diagnosis, 25.6% primary depressive disorder). In this study a two-factor model of depression, composed of Cognitive and Affective/Somatic factors, was superior to one- and three-factor solutions. AS cognitive concerns were related to both cognitive and affective/somatic symptoms of depression. Neither of the other AS dimensions was related to depression symptom dimensions. These findings provide a better understanding of the relations between AS and depression symptoms.

Examining the latent structure mechanisms for comorbid posttraumatic stress disorder and major depressive disorder

BACKGROUND

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a complex psychiatric illness that can be difficult to diagnose, due in part to its comorbidity with major depressive disorder (MDD). Given that researchers have found no difference in prevalence rates of PTSD and MDD after accounting for overlapping symptoms, the latent structures of PTSD and MDD may account for the high comorbidity. In particular, the PTSD Negative Alterations in Cognition and Mood (NACM) and Hyperarousal factors have been characterized as non-specific to PTSD. Therefore, we compared the factor structures of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5^thedition (DSM-5) PTSD and MDD and examined the mediating role of the PTSD NACM and Hyperarousal factors on the relationship between MDD and PTSD symptom severity.

METHODS

Participants included 598 trauma-exposed veterans (M_age = 48.39, 89% male) who completed symptom self-report measures of DSM-5 PTSD and MDD.

RESULTS

Confirmatory factor analyses indicated an adequate-fitting four-factor DSM-5 PTSD model and two-factor MDD model. Compared to other PTSD factors, the PTSD NACM factor had the strongest relationship with the MDD Affective factor, and the PTSD NACM and Hyperarousal factors had the strongest association with the MDD Somatic factor. Further, the PTSD NACM factor explained the relationship between MDD factors and PTSD symptom severity. More Affective and Somatic depression was related to more NACM symptoms, which in turn were related to increased severity of PTSD.

LIMITATIONS

Limitations include the reliance on self-report measures and the use of a treatment-seeking, trauma-exposed veteran sample which may not generalize to other populations.

CONCLUSIONS

Implications concerning the shared somatic complaints and psychological distress in the comorbidity of PTSD and MDD are discussed.

The structure of co-occurring PTSD and depression symptoms in a cohort of Marines pre- and post-deployment

Symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and major depressive disorder are the most frequently co-occurring problems following potentially traumatic events. It is unclear whether these comorbidities represent two correlated but distinct disorders or a common post-event response. We sought to inform this question by examining the distinctiveness of PTSD and depression symptoms at four cross-sectional time points, using data from a parent prospective longitudinal study of 858 Marines evaluated before deployment and approximately 1, 5, and 8 months after returning from the Afghanistan war. We conducted a series of cross-sectional confirmatory factor analyses of PTSD and depression symptoms at each time point, using the Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Checklist IV and the Beck Depression Inventory II. Analyses indicated that across all four assessments, self-reported symptoms on the measures were best explained by distinct but correlated subclusters of symptoms within each measure. This structure was supported by the data both before and after deployment, even with increases in average PTSD symptoms after deployment. These findings suggest that despite shared method variance and some symptom overlap, self-reports of PTSD and depression symptoms across a stressful combat deployment show distinct symptom subclusters rather than a general common trauma reaction in this sample of Marines.

Examination of the heterogeneity in PTSD and impulsivity facets: A latent profile analysis

The experience of traumatizing events and resulting posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptomology relates to a range of impulsive behaviors. While both PTSD and impulsivity are heterogeneous and multidimensional constructs, no research has used person-centered approaches to examine subgroups of individuals based on these response endorsements. Hence, our study examined PTSD-impulsivity typologies and their construct validity in two samples: university students (n = 412) and community participants recruited through Amazon's MTurk (n = 346). Measures included the Stressful Life Events Screening Questionnaire (PTEs), PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 (PTSD severity), UPPS Impulsive Behavior Scale (negative urgency, lack of premeditation, lack of perseverance, sensation seeking). Dimensions of Anger Reaction Scale (anger), and the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (depression). For both samples, results of latent profile analyses indicated a best-fitting 3-class solution: High, Moderate, and Low PTSD-Negative Urgency. Negative urgency was the most distinguishing impulsivity facet. Anger and depression severity significantly predicted membership in the more severe symptomatology classes. Thus, individuals can be meaningfully categorized into three subgroups based on PTSD and impulsivity item endorsements. We provide some preliminary evidence for a negative urgency subtype of PTSD characterized by greater depression and anger regulation difficulties; and underscore addressing emotional regulation skills for these subgroup members.

DSM-5-based latent PTSD models: Assessing structural relations with GAD in Filipino post-relocatees

An increasing number of studies investigated the latent factor structure of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptomatology following the new fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). To date, there is no consensus on the best representation of PTSD. This study examined six latent PTSD models in a sample of Filipino post-disaster relocatees (N = 523). Further investigation on the relationship of the best-fitting model to generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) in the latent level was conducted. The seven-factor hybrid model consisting of intrusion, avoidance, negative affect, anhedonia, externalizing behaviors, anxious arousal, and dysphoric arousal, was the best fitting model. Latent associations between the factors in the hybrid model and GAD suggest there are core and transdiagnostic features of PTSD. These findings have implications for understanding the underlying mechanism of PTSD and can inform the development of trauma-related interventions, particularly among post-disaster relocatees.

Assessing the latent structure of DSM-5 PTSD among Chinese adolescents after the Ya'an earthquake

To examine the underlying substructure of DSM-5 PTSD in an adolescent sample, this study used a confirmatory factor analysis alternative model approach to assess 813 adolescents two and a half years after the Ya'an earthquake. Participants completed the PTSD Checklist for DSM-5, the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale for Children, and the Screen for Child Anxiety Related Emotional Disorders. The results found that the seven-factor hybrid PTSD model entailing intrusion, avoidance, negative affect, anhedonia, externalizing behaviors, anxious arousal, and dysphoric arousal had significantly better fit indices than other alternative models. Depression and anxiety displayed high correlations with the seven-factor model. The findings suggested that the seven-factor model was more applicable to adolescents following the earthquake, and may carry important implications for further clinical practice and research on posttraumatic stress symptomatology.

PTSD symptoms and suicide risk in veterans: Serial indirect effects via depression and anger

BACKGROUND

Suicide rates are higher in veterans compared to the general population, perhaps due to trauma exposure. Previous literature highlights depressive symptoms and anger as contributors to suicide risk. PTSD symptoms may indirectly affect suicide risk by increasing the severity of such cognitive-emotional factors.

METHOD

A sample of community dwelling veterans (N=545) completed online surveys, including the PTSD Checklist-Military Version, Suicidal Behaviors Questionnaire-Revised, Multidimensional Health Profile-Psychosocial Functioning, and Differential Emotions Scale -IV. Bivariate and serial mediation analyses were conducted to test for direct and indirect effects of PTSD symptoms on suicide risk.

RESULTS

In bivariate analyses, PTSD symptoms, depression, anger, and internal hostility were positively related to suicide risk. In serial mediation analyses, there was a significant total effect of PTSD symptoms on suicide risk in both models. PTSD symptoms were also indirectly related to suicidal behavior via depression and internal hostility, and via internal hostility alone. Anger was not a significant mediator.

LIMITATION

Our cross-sectional sample was predominantly White and male; prospective studies with diverse veterans are needed.

DISCUSSION

Our findings may have implications for veteran suicide prevention. The effects of PTSD and depression on anger, particularly internal hostility, are related to suicide risk, suggesting a potential mechanism of action for the PTSD-suicide linkage. A multi-faceted therapeutic approach, targeting depression and internal hostility, via cognitive-behavioral techniques such as behavioral activation and cognitive restructuring, may reduce suicide risk in veterans who have experienced trauma.

Heterogeneity in patterns of DSM-5 posttraumatic stress disorder and depression symptoms: Latent profile analyses

BACKGROUND

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression co-occur frequently following the experience of potentially traumatizing events (PTE; Morina et al., 2013). A person-centered approach to discern heterogeneous patterns of such co-occurring symptoms is recommended (Galatzer-Levy and Bryant, 2013). We assessed heterogeneity in PTSD and depression symptomatology; and subsequently assessed relations between class membership with psychopathology constructs (alcohol use, distress tolerance, dissociative experiences).

METHODS

The sample consisted of 268 university students who had experienced a PTE and susequently endorsed clinical levels of PTSD or depression severity. Latent profile analyses (LPA) was used to identify the best-fitting class solution accouring to recommended fit indices (Nylund et al., 2007a); and the effects of covariates was analyzed using a 3-step approach (Vermunt, 2010).

RESULTS

Results of the LPA indicated an optimal 3-class solutions: high severity (Class 2), lower PTSD-higher depression (Class 1), and higher PTSD-lower depression (Class 3). Covariates of distress tolerance, and different kinds of dissociative experiences differentiated the latent classes.

LIMITATIONS

Use of self-report measure could lead to response biases; and the specific nature of the sample limits generalizability of results.

CONCLUSION

We found evidence for a depressive subtype of PTSD differentiated from other classes in terms of lower distress tolerance and greater dissociative experiences. Thus, transdiagnostic treatment protocols may be most beneficial for these latent class members. Further, the distinctiveness of PTSD and depression at comparatively lower levels of PTSD severity was supported (mainly in terms of distress tolerance abilities); hence supporting the current classification system placement of these disorders.

Latent-level relations between DSM-5 PTSD symptom clusters and problematic smartphone use

Common mental health consequences following the experience of potentially traumatic events include Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and addictive behaviors. Problematic smartphone use is a newer manifestation of addictive behaviors. People with anxiety severity (such as PTSD) may be at risk for problematic smartphone use as a means of coping with their symptoms. Unique to our knowledge, we assessed relations between PTSD symptom clusters and problematic smartphone use. Participants (N = 347), recruited through Amazon's Mechanical Turk (MTurk), completed measures of PTSD and smartphone addiction. Results of the Wald tests of parameter constraints indicated that problematic smartphone use was more related to PTSD's negative alterations in cognitions and mood (NACM) than to PTSD's avoidance factor, Wald χ²(1, N = 347) = 12.51, p = 0.0004; and more to PTSD's arousal compared to PTSD's avoidance factor, Wald χ²(1, N = 347) = 14.89, p = 0.0001. Results indicate that problematic smartphone use is most associated with negative affect and arousal among trauma-exposed individuals. Implications include the need to clinically assess problematic smartphone use among trauma-exposed individuals presenting with higher NACM and arousal severity; and targeting NACM and arousal symptoms to mitigate the effects of problematic smartphone use.

An in-depth look into PTSD-depression comorbidity: A longitudinal study of chronically-exposed Detroit residents

BACKGROUND

Although PTSD-major depressive disorder (MDD) co-morbidity is well-established, the vast majority of studies have examined comorbidity at the level of PTSD total severity, rather than at the level of specific PTSD symptom clusters. This study aimed to examine the long-term associations between MDD and PTSD symptom clusters (intrusion, avoidance, hyperarousal), and the moderating role of gender in these associations.

METHODS

942 residents of urban Detroit neighborhoods were interviewed at 3 waves, 1 year apart. At each wave, they were assessed for PTSD, depression, trauma exposure, and stressful life events.

RESULTS

At all waves, hyperarousal was the PTSD cluster most strongly correlated with MDD. For the full sample, a reciprocal relationship was found between MDD and all three PTSD clusters across time. Interestingly, the relative strength of associations between MDD and specific PTSD clusters changed over time. Women showed the same bidirectional MDD-PTSD pattern as in the entire sample, while men sometimes showed non-significant associations between early MDD and subsequent PTSD clusters.

LIMITATIONS

First, our analyses are based on DSM-IV criteria, as this was the existing edition at the time of this study. Second, although this is a longitudinal study, inferences regarding temporal precedence of one disorder over another must be made with caution.

CONCLUSIONS

Early identification of either PTSD or MDD following trauma may be crucial in order to prevent the development of the other disorder over time. The PTSD cluster of hyper-arousal may require special therapeutic attention. Also, professionals are encouraged to develop more gender-specific interventions post-trauma.

Smoking-induced affect modulation in nonwithdrawn smokers with posttraumatic stress disorder, depression, and in those with no psychiatric disorder

This research sought to determine whether smoking influences affect by means other than withdrawal reduction. Little previous evidence suggests such an effect. We surmised that such an effect would be especially apparent in posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and major depressive disorder (MDD), 2 disorders that are frequently comorbid with smoking and that involve dysregulated affect. Participants were U.S. veterans who were regular smokers (N = 159): 52 with PTSD (58% with comorbid MDD), 51 with MDD, and 56 controls with no psychiatric disorder. During 3 positive and 3 negative mood induction trials (scheduled over 2 sessions), nonwithdrawn participants smoked either a nicotine-containing cigarette (NIC+), a nicotine-free cigarette (NIC-), or held a pen. Positive and negative affect were each measured before and after mood induction. Results showed a significant 2-way interaction of Smoking Condition × Time on negative affect during the negative mood induction (F(6, 576) = 2.41, p = .03) in those with PTSD and controls. In these groups, both NIC+ and NIC-, relative to pen, produced lower negative affect ratings after the negative mood induction. There was also a 2-way interaction of Smoking Condition × Time on positive affect response to the positive mood induction among those with PTSD and controls (F(6, 564) = 3.17, p = .005) and among MDD and controls (F(6, 564) = 2.27, p = .036). Among all smokers, NIC+ enhanced the magnitude and duration of positive affect more than did NIC-. Results revealed affect modulation outside the context of withdrawal relief; such effects may motivate smoking among those with psychiatric diagnoses, and among smokers in general. (PsycINFO Database Record

PTSD factor structure and relationship with self-construal among internally displaced persons

The present study examined the factor structure of six competing posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) models based on the recent changes in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) in a sample that, while highly vulnerable to PTSD, very few studies have focused on-Asians, particularly Filipino internally displaced persons (IDPs). In recognition of the role of culture in PTSD factor structure, we also investigated the associations of the factors of the best-fitting model with self-construal. A sample of 460 IDPs in government resettlement communities participated in the study. Results of confirmatory factor analyses revealed the seven-factor hybrid model composed of intrusion, avoidance, negative affect, anhedonia, externalizing behaviors, anxious arousal, and dysphoric arousal as the best-fitting model. Furthermore, it was found that associations between independent self-construal and PTSD factors were higher than that of interdependent self-construal and PTSD factors.

Genome-wide Association Studies of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder in 2 Cohorts of US Army Soldiers

IMPORTANCE

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a prevalent, serious public health concern, particularly in the military. The identification of genetic risk factors for PTSD may provide important insights into the biological foundation of vulnerability and comorbidity.

OBJECTIVE

To discover genetic loci associated with the lifetime risk for PTSD in 2 cohorts from the Army Study to Assess Risk and Resilience in Servicemembers (Army STARRS).

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

Two coordinated genome-wide association studies of mental health in the US military contributed participants. The New Soldier Study (NSS) included 3167 unique participants with PTSD and 4607 trauma-exposed control individuals; the Pre/Post Deployment Study (PPDS) included 947 unique participants with PTSD and 4969 trauma-exposed controls. The NSS data were collected from February 1, 2011, to November 30, 2012; the PDDS data, from January 9 to April 30, 2012. The primary analysis compared lifetime DSM-IV PTSD cases with trauma-exposed controls without lifetime PTSD. Data were analyzed from March 18 to December 27, 2015.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

Association analyses for PTSD used logistic regression models within each of 3 ancestral groups (European, African, and Latino American) by study, followed by meta-analysis. Heritability and genetic correlation and pleiotropy with other psychiatric and immune-related disorders were estimated.

RESULTS

The NSS population was 80.7% male (6277 of 7774 participants; mean [SD] age, 20.9 [3.3] years); the PPDS population, 94.4% male (5583 of 5916 participants; mean [SD] age, 26.5 [6.0] years). A genome-wide significant locus was found in ANKRD55 on chromosome 5 (rs159572; odds ratio [OR], 1.62; 95% CI, 1.37-1.92; P = 2.34 × 10-8) and persisted after adjustment for cumulative trauma exposure (adjusted OR, 1.64; 95% CI, 1.39-1.95; P = 1.18 × 10-8) in the African American samples from the NSS. A genome-wide significant locus was also found in or near ZNF626 on chromosome 19 (rs11085374; OR, 0.77; 95% CI, 0.70-0.85; P = 4.59 × 10-8) in the European American samples from the NSS. Similar results were not found for either single-nucleotide polymorphism in the corresponding ancestry group from the PPDS sample, in other ancestral groups, or in transancestral meta-analyses. Single-nucleotide polymorphism-based heritability was nonsignificant, and no significant genetic correlations were observed between PTSD and 6 mental disorders or 9 immune-related disorders. Significant evidence of pleiotropy was observed between PTSD and rheumatoid arthritis and, to a lesser extent, psoriasis.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

In the largest genome-wide association study of PTSD to date, involving a US military sample, limited evidence of association for specific loci was found. Further efforts are needed to replicate the genome-wide significant association with ANKRD55-associated in prior research with several autoimmune and inflammatory disorders-and to clarify the nature of the genetic overlap observed between PTSD and rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis.

Numbing of Positive, Negative, and General Emotions: Associations With Trauma Exposure, Posttraumatic Stress, and Depressive Symptoms Among Justice-Involved Youth

Increasing attention has been drawn to the symptom of emotional numbing in the phenomenology of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), particularly regarding its implications for maladaptive outcomes in adolescence such as delinquent behavior. One change in the definition of emotional numbing according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.; DSM-5; American Psychiatric Association, 2013) was the limitation to the numbing of positive emotions. Previous research with youth, however, has implicated general numbing or numbing of negative emotions in PTSD, whereas numbing of positive emotions may overlap with other disorders, particularly depression. Consequently, the goal of this study was to investigate whether numbing of positive emotions was associated with PTSD symptoms above and beyond numbing of negative emotions, general emotional numbing, or depressive symptoms among at-risk adolescents. In a sample of 221 detained youth (mean age = 15.98 years, SD = 1.25; 50.7% ethnic minority), results of hierarchical multiple regressions indicated that only general emotional numbing and numbing of anger accounted for significant variance in PTSD symptoms (total R(2) = .37). In contrast, numbing of sadness and positive emotions were statistical correlates of depressive symptoms (total R(2) = .24). Further tests using Hayes' Process macro showed that general numbing, 95% CI [.02, .45], and numbing of anger, 95% CI [.01, .42], demonstrated indirect effects on the association between trauma exposure and PTSD symptoms.

The moderating role of dysphoria in the relationship between intrusions and alcohol use

Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is frequently comorbid with alcohol use disorders (AUD; Calabrese et al., 2011; McFall, Mackay, & Donovan, 1992). Among several explanations for this comorbidity, the most empirically supported is the self-medication theory which postulates that substances are used to medicate PTSD-related distress (Keane & Wolfe, 1990; Khantzian, 1985; Stewart, 1996). The current study examines the effects of trauma-related distress on alcohol use (total drinking days, drinks per drinking day, heavy drinking days) in a sample of 127 trauma-exposed Veterans following deployment to Iraq or Afghanistan. The dysphoria symptoms of PTSD were used as an indicator of distress, and examined as a moderator in the relationship between intrusion symptoms of PTSD and alcohol use. The proposed moderation model was tested using cross-sectional data from the first month following return from deployment, and at 6 months and at 12 months post-deployment. Results showed that dysphoria symptoms significantly moderated relations between intrusions and total drinking days and heavy drinking days at one month post-deployment; however, a significant pattern was not demonstrated at 6 months and 12 months. Further, dysphoria did not moderate the relation between intrusion symptoms and drinks per drinking day at the three time points. Theoretical and clinical implications are subsequently discussed.

Latent dimensions of posttraumatic stress disorder and their relations with alcohol use disorder

PURPOSE

The objective of this study was to evaluate the relationship between factors of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and alcohol use disorder (AUD) using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) in order to further our understanding of the substantial comorbidity between these two disorders.

METHODS

CFA was used to examine which factors of PTSD's dysphoria model were most related to AUD in a military sample. Ohio National Guard soldiers with a history of overseas deployment participated in the survey (n = 1215). Participants completed the PTSD Checklist and a 12-item survey from the National Survey on Drug Use used to diagnosis AUD.

RESULTS

The results of the CFA indicated that a combined model of PTSD's four factors and a single AUD factor fit the data very well. Correlations between PTSD's factors and a latent AUD factor ranged from correlation coefficients of 0.258-0.285, with PTSD's dysphoria factor demonstrating the strongest correlation. However, Wald tests of parameter constraints revealed that AUD was not more correlated with PTSD's dysphoria than other PTSD factors.

CONCLUSIONS

All four factors of PTSD's dysphoria model demonstrate comparable correlations with AUD. The role of dysphoria to the construct of PTSD is discussed.

Discriminant validity and gender differences in DSM-5 posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms

BACKGROUND

The posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) literature is replete with investigations of factor structure, however, few empirical studies have examined discriminant validity and the moderating role of gender on factor structure and symptom expression. This study aimed to address these gaps.

METHODS

An online, population-based study of 3175 Australian adults was conducted. This study analyzed data from 642 participants who reported a traumatic event. Overall, 10.2% (13.4% females, 7.6% males) met diagnostic criteria for current PTSD.

RESULTS

Confirmatory factor analyses indicated that eight factor models provided excellent fit to the data. The DSM-5 model, anhedonia and hybrid models provided strong fit to the data, based on statistical fit indices and parsimony. The models' factors were significantly associated with a number of external correlates. Factor structure was gender invariant for the three models, albeit significant latent mean-level differences were apparent in relation to the intrusion/re-experiencing and alterations in arousal and reactivity factors. Bonferroni-adjusted Wald chi-square tests indicated significant gender differences in four DSM-5 PTSD symptoms: females reported significantly higher rates of negative beliefs, diminished interest, restricted affect and sleep disturbance symptoms compared to men.

LIMITATIONS

Response rate to the survey was low. However, the number of respondents who completed the survey was high and population weights were employed to account for self-selection biases and aid generalizability.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings provide support for the DSM-5, anhedonia and hybrid models compared to alternative models based on DSM-5 symptoms. Discriminant validity analyses indicated similar patterns of significant associations with the transdiagnostic factors, potentially suggesting that all the PTSD factors are related to non-specific distress. Further research investigating how gender influences PTSD symptom expression is warranted, including possible gender differences in symptom item interpretation.

Gratitude, depression and PTSD: Assessment of structural relationships

Gratitude, the tendency to appreciate positive occurrences in one's life that can be partially attributed to another person, has been shown to be a robust predictor of greater well-being. Researchers have also found gratitude to be inversely related to several emotional disorders, including major depressive disorder (MDD) and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Both of these emotional disorders are highly comorbid and share dysphoric symptoms (e.g., restricted affect, detachment, anhedonia) that could account for deficits in the experience and expression of gratitude. We used confirmatory factor analysis to test the relationships between gratitude and the symptom factors of PTSD (using the DSM-5 model) and MDD in a sample of trauma-exposed college students (N=202). Results indicated that gratitude is more strongly related to PTSD's negative alterations in mood and cognition (NAMC) factor than to other PTSD factors. Implications of these findings for the study of gratitude and trauma are discussed, including whether gratitude and gratitude-based interventions might prove particularly suited to targeting depressive symptoms.