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Psychometric properties of the PTSD Checklist-Civilian Version
Kenneth J Ruggiero1, Kevin Del Ben, Joseph R Scotti
1Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, National Crime Victims Research and Treatment Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina 29425, USA. ruggierk@musc.edu
Journal of Traumatic Stress
|October 31, 2003
Summary
The PTSD Checklist (PCL) accurately measures posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms. This study confirms its reliability and validity for assessing PTSD in university settings.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Clinical Psychology
- Psychometrics
Background:
- Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) requires reliable assessment tools.
- The PTSD Checklist (PCL) is a widely used self-report measure for PTSD symptoms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the psychometric properties of the PTSD Checklist (PCL).
- To confirm the reliability and validity of the PCL for assessing PTSD.
Main Methods:
- 392 university participants completed the PCL and other psychopathology measures.
- 90 participants underwent retesting to assess measure stability.
- Psychometric analyses included internal consistency, test-retest reliability, and validity.
Main Results:
- The PCL demonstrated strong internal consistency.
- Test-retest reliability for the PCL was confirmed.
- Convergent and discriminant validity of the PCL were supported by the findings.
Conclusions:
- The PTSD Checklist (PCL) is a psychometrically sound instrument for assessing PTSD symptoms.
- The PCL's reliability and validity support its use in clinical and research settings.
- Further discussion highlights additional strengths of the PCL.