Validation of PCL-5 symptom validity indices in a Cross-Cultural Forensic Sample

Area of Science:

• Forensic Psychology
• Clinical Psychology
• Psychological Assessment

Background:

• Three symptom validity indices for the PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5) have shown promise in North American samples.
• Previous research has primarily focused on North American research and clinical populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To cross-validate the PCL-5 symptom validity indices in a cross-cultural forensic sample.
• To assess the utility of these indices in a non-North American population seeking compensation for alleged PTSD.

Main Methods:

• Seventy-nine Balkan contractors (Macedonian, Kosovar, Serbian) claiming PTSD were assessed.
• Validity status was determined using the Inventory of Problems-29.
• Demographic and background variables were compared across validity groups.

Main Results:

• No significant demographic differences were found between valid and invalid groups.
• All validity tests showed significant differences between credible and non-credible responders (medium to large effect sizes).
• Area under the curve ranged from .73 to .77, with sensitivity rates of .33–.47 at 90% specificity.

Conclusions:

• The findings support the use of PCL-5 symptom validity indices in cross-cultural forensic settings.
• The study extends the applicability of these indices beyond North American samples.
• Results align with previous research, confirming the utility of these validity measures.