Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: A Comprehensive Review of Comorbidities and Diagnosis
In this evidence-based synthesis paper, I reviewed findings from 15 empirical studies ranging from 2023 to 2010, as well as the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11) and the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5 TR). Using these studies, I summarized the current knowledge surrounding complex post-traumatic stress disorder (CPTSD) and its high comorbidity rate with other psychological disorders. CPTSD has been conceptualized as a psychological disorder for many decades targeting individuals who have experienced prolonged and repeated trauma(s). There was much debate as to whether this was an evidence-based diagnosis until 2019 when the ICD-11 elected to include an adult version of CPTSD based on the validation of its research. Most researchers have found this a challenging disorder to both study and diagnose due to its symptom complexity, non-linearity origin, and extensive psychiatric comorbidity. Researchers have found that CPTSD is most common in clinical samples as it is a debilitating disorder going beyond the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It has been recognized that there is a crucial need to review the effects of CPTSD and comorbidity with other psychological disorders, improving clinical assessment methods for this newly recognized disorder. Furthermore, researchers in the mental health field recognize the importance of adopting trauma-informed approaches, highlighting the need for accurate assessment methods, and treatment, emphasizing the significance of not overlooking the potential impacts of traumatization beyond the symptoms of PTSD.
PSY 499, Senior Capstone
Erin Mueller
S100
3:30 – 4 PM