Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 1, 2026

Polar Histogram Visualization of Acute Stress Disorder Scale Scores for Comprehensive Clinical Assessment
Published on: December 6, 2024
Exploring the relationship between underlying dimensions of posttraumatic stress disorder and depression in a
Jon D Elhai1, Ateka A Contractor, Patrick A Palmieri
1Department of Psychology, University of Toledo, Ohio 43606-3390, USA. http://www.jon-elhai.com
Background:
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression are highly comorbid and intercorrelated. Yet little research has examined the underlying processes explaining their interrelationship.
Method:
In the present survey study, the investigators assessed the combined symptom structure of PTSD and depression symptoms, to examine shared, underlying psychopathological processes. Participants included 740 Canadian military veterans from a national, epidemiological survey, previously deployed on peacekeeping missions and administered the PTSD Checklist and Center for Epidemiological Studies-Depression Scale (CES-D).
Results:
An eight-factor PTSD/depression model fit adequately. In analyses validating the structure, PTSD's dysphoria factor was more related to depressive affect than to several other PTSD and depression factors. Somatic problems were more related to dysphoria than to other PTSD factors.
Limitations:
Only military veterans were sampled, and without the use of structured diagnostic interviews.
Conclusions:
Results highlight a set of interrelationships that PTSD's dysphoria factor shares with specific depression factors, shedding light on the underlying psychopathology of PTSD that emphasizes dysphoric mood.
Related Concept Videos
Post-traumatic Stress Disorder
Symptoms and Behavioral Manifestations
A spectrum of distressing symptoms characterizes PTSD. Recurrent flashbacks, where individuals involuntarily relive traumatic events, are a...
Depressive Disorders: Etiology
Biological Factors in Depression
Biological predispositions significantly influence the risk of developing depressive disorders. Genetic studies highlight the role of variations in the serotonin transporter...
Stress and Mental Health
Individuals with depression often experience challenges in both their personal and professional...
Long-term Depression
Long-term Depression
Calcium Ion Concentration Mechanism
If over time, all...
Depression: Overview
