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Posttraumatic stress disorder and neurocognition: A bidirectional relationship?
Shawna N Jacob1, Caroline P Dodge2, Jennifer J Vasterling3
1Psychology Service, VA Boston Healthcare System, 150 S. Huntington Ave, Boston, MA 02130, United States; Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, 72 E. Concord Street, Boston, MA 02118, United States; Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, 25 Shattuck Street, Boston, MA 02115, United States.
Clinical Psychology Review
|June 25, 2019
Summary
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and neurocognition may influence each other in a negative feedback loop. PTSD treatments and cognitive strategies may help disrupt this cycle.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychology
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Established links exist between post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and neurocognitive deficits.
- The causal directionality between PTSD and neurocognition remains unclear.
- Neurocognition may influence PTSD risk, while PTSD may impact cognitive function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review research examining the bidirectional relationship between PTSD and neurocognition.
- To elucidate the directionality of influence between PTSD and cognitive function.
- To identify potential therapeutic targets for breaking the PTSD-neurocognition cycle.
Main Methods:
- Review of preclinical, human analogue, retrospective, longitudinal, and treatment studies.
- Synthesis of findings from diverse research methodologies.
- Analysis of cognitive and neurobiological conceptualizations of PTSD.
Main Results:
- Evidence suggests a negative feedback loop between PTSD and neurocognition.
- Preclinical and human studies indicate reciprocal influences.
- Longitudinal and treatment data support the cyclical nature of the relationship.
Conclusions:
- A cyclical relationship exists where PTSD negatively impacts neurocognition, and impaired neurocognition may contribute to PTSD development and maintenance.
- Interventions targeting cognitive enhancement and PTSD treatment show promise in disrupting this negative feedback loop.
- Further research is warranted to fully understand and leverage these mechanisms for therapeutic benefit.
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