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

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Cross-cultural Psychology
• Trauma Studies

Background:

• Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) diagnostic criteria have evolved with the DSM-5.
• Research on PTSD factor structure in Asian populations, specifically Filipino internally displaced persons (IDPs), is limited.
• Cultural factors significantly influence the manifestation and structure of PTSD.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the factor structure of six PTSD models based on DSM-5 criteria in Filipino IDPs.
• To identify the best-fitting PTSD model for this vulnerable population.
• To investigate the relationship between self-construal (independent vs. interdependent) and PTSD factors.

Main Methods:

• Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was employed to evaluate competing PTSD models.
• A sample of 460 Filipino internally displaced persons (IDPs) participated.
• The study assessed the association between the best-fitting PTSD model's factors and self-construal.

Main Results:

• The seven-factor hybrid model, encompassing intrusion, avoidance, negative affect, anhedonia, externalizing behaviors, anxious arousal, and dysphoric arousal, demonstrated the best fit.
• Independent self-construal exhibited stronger associations with PTSD factors compared to interdependent self-construal.
• This suggests cultural variations in PTSD symptom presentation and its correlates.

Conclusions:

• The seven-factor hybrid model provides a robust framework for understanding PTSD in Filipino IDPs.
• Self-construal, particularly independent self-construal, plays a significant role in the experience of PTSD symptoms within this cultural context.
• Future research should consider cultural nuances when examining PTSD etiology and treatment.