Complex PTSD symptom clusters and executive function in UK Armed Forces veterans: a cross-sectional study.
Natasha Biscoe1, Emma New2, Dominic Murphy3,4
1Combat Stress, Leatherhead, Surrey, KT22 0BX, UK. natasha.biscoe@combatstress.org.uk.
BMC Psychology
|April 15, 2024
Summary
Complex posttraumatic stress disorder (CPTSD) symptom clusters, particularly emotion dysregulation, are linked to executive function impairment in veterans. This finding suggests executive function may impact CPTSD treatment outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Neuroscience
- Military Health
Background:
- Complex posttraumatic stress disorder (CPTSD) is less understood than posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in veterans.
- Military veterans may have a higher risk for CPTSD.
- Executive function deficits are associated with PTSD treatment success.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between CPTSD symptom clusters and executive function in veterans.
- To determine if executive function impairment influences CPTSD treatment trajectories.
Main Methods:
- 428 veterans completed self-report questionnaires.
- International Trauma Questionnaire assessed CPTSD symptom clusters.
- Adult Executive Function Inventory measured executive function.
- Linear regression models analyzed associations.
Main Results:
- All CPTSD symptom clusters correlated with greater executive function impairment.
- Associations remained significant after controlling for confounders.
- Emotion dysregulation showed the strongest link to executive function deficits.
Conclusions:
- This study is the first to link executive function to CPTSD symptom clusters.
- Executive function may be a key factor in CPTSD treatment, similar to PTSD.
- Further research is needed to explore clinical implications for CPTSD treatment.
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