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Selective processing of threat cues in posttraumatic stress disorder
R J McNally1, S P Kaspi, B C Riemann
1Department of Psychology, University of Health Sciences, Chicago Medical School, Illinois 60064.
Journal of Abnormal Psychology
|November 1, 1990
Summary
Vietnam combat veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) showed increased cognitive interference when naming colors of PTSD-related words. This suggests a potential quantitative measure for intrusive thoughts in PTSD.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Neuroscience
- Cognitive Science
Background:
- Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is characterized by intrusive cognitive activity.
- Understanding the cognitive mechanisms underlying PTSD is crucial for developing effective treatments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate cognitive processing differences in Vietnam combat veterans with and without PTSD.
- To assess the utility of the Stroop task in measuring intrusive cognitive activity related to PTSD.
Main Methods:
- A modified Stroop task was administered to two groups of Vietnam combat veterans (n=15 with PTSD, n=15 without PTSD).
- Participants named the colors of neutral, positive, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and PTSD-related words.
- Reaction times were measured to assess Stroop interference.
Main Results:
- Veterans with PTSD exhibited significantly longer color-naming times for PTSD-related words compared to neutral, OCD, and positive words.
- This heightened interference for trauma-related stimuli suggests involuntary semantic activation.
Conclusions:
- The Stroop task can quantify intrusive cognitive activity in individuals with PTSD.
- Findings support the role of involuntary semantic activation in the cognitive hallmark of PTSD.