Which PTSD symptom cluster includes distorted self-blame, persistent negative beliefs, and inability to recall aspects of the trauma?

Which PTSD symptom cluster includes distorted self-blame, persistent negative beliefs, and inability to recall aspects of the trauma?

• A. Negative alterations in cognitions and mood.
• B. Re-experiencing.
• C. Arousal and reactivity.
• D. Avoidance.

Answer: (A)

PTSD symptom clusters group different kinds of disturbance after trauma. Distorted self-blame, persistent negative beliefs about oneself or others, and the inability to recall aspects of the trauma are manifestations of negative alterations in cognitions and mood. This cluster covers changes in thinking and feeling—such as blaming oneself, holding enduring negative beliefs about the world, and dissociative amnesia for parts of the event—as well as persistent negative emotional states and detachment. Other clusters describe intrusion (re-experiencing), arousal and reactivity, and avoidance. Because these symptoms revolve around changes in thoughts and mood rather than memories, they fit best with negative alterations in cognitions and mood.

PTSD symptom clusters group different kinds of disturbance after trauma. Distorted self-blame, persistent negative beliefs about oneself or others, and the inability to recall aspects of the trauma are manifestations of negative alterations in cognitions and mood. This cluster covers changes in thinking and feeling—such as blaming oneself, holding enduring negative beliefs about the world, and dissociative amnesia for parts of the event—as well as persistent negative emotional states and detachment. Other clusters describe intrusion (re-experiencing), arousal and reactivity, and avoidance. Because these symptoms revolve around changes in thoughts and mood rather than memories, they fit best with negative alterations in cognitions and mood.