Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 7, 2026

Biomarkers in an Animal Model for Revealing Neural, Hematologic, and Behavioral Correlates of PTSD
Published on: October 10, 2012
NEO-PI profiles in PTSD as a function of trauma level
F S Talbert1, L C Braswell, J W Albrecht
1Psychology Service, VA Medical Center, Augusta, GA 30904.
This study found no personality differences between Vietnam veterans with PTSD based on trauma exposure levels. However, a distinct PTSD personality profile emerged, marked by high Neuroticism and low Agreeableness.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Military Mental Health
- Trauma Studies
Background:
- Combat-related Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) significantly impacts veterans' lives.
- Understanding the personality traits associated with PTSD is crucial for effective treatment.
- Previous research has explored personality correlates of PTSD, but findings require further clarification.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate personality differences among Vietnam veterans with PTSD based on varying levels of combat exposure.
- To establish a normative personality profile for individuals diagnosed with combat-related PTSD.
Main Methods:
- One hundred Vietnam veterans diagnosed with combat-related PTSD participated.
- Participants completed the NEO Personality Inventory (NEO-PI) and the Combat Exposure Scale.
- Subjects were categorized into three groups according to their level of trauma exposure.
Main Results:
- No statistically significant differences in personality profiles were observed across the three trauma exposure groups.
- A characteristic NEO-PI profile for combat-related PTSD was identified.
- This profile is defined by exceptionally high Neuroticism scores (T > 75) and markedly low Agreeableness scores (T < 25).
Conclusions:
- Combat exposure level does not appear to differentiate personality profiles in veterans with PTSD.
- A specific personality configuration, high in Neuroticism and low in Agreeableness, is associated with combat-related PTSD.
- These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the psychological landscape of PTSD in veterans.
More Related Videos
10:43Developing Neuroimaging Phenotypes of the Default Mode Network in PTSD: Integrating the Resting State, Working Memory, and Structural Connectivity
Published on: July 1, 2014
09:55Use of a Psychophysiological Script-driven Imagery Experiment to Study Trauma-related Dissociation in Borderline Personality Disorder
Published on: March 8, 2018
Related Concept Videos
Traumatic Memory
Self-Report Tests of Personality
Post-traumatic Stress Disorder
Symptoms and Behavioral Manifestations
A spectrum of distressing symptoms characterizes PTSD. Recurrent flashbacks, where individuals involuntarily relive traumatic events, are a...
Dissociative Disorders
Dissociative Fugue
A hallmark feature of dissociative disorders is the dissociative fugue...
Dissociative Identity Disorder
Traumatic Brain Injury l: Introduction