Citation

Heir T, Piatigorsky A, Weisaeth L. Br. J. Psychiatry 2009; 194(6): 510-514.

Affiliation

Norwegian Centre for Violence and Traumatic Stress Studies, Building 48, Kirkeveien 166, Oslo N-0407, Norway. trond.heir@medisin.uio.no

Comment In:

Br J Psychiatry 2009;194(6):479-80

Copyright

(Copyright © 2009, Royal College of Psychiatry)

DOI

10.1192/bjp.bp.108.056580

PMID

19478289

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) diagnosis often depends on a retrospective, self-report of exposure to a life-threatening event. AIMS: To examine the stability of recalled perceived life threat in a community sample exposed to a distinct stressful event. METHOD: Five hundred and thirty-two Norwegian citizens who experienced the 2004 South-East Asia tsunami completed a self-report questionnaire 6 and 24 months post-disaster. The questionnaire measured perceived life-threat intensity, exposure, immediate stress response, psychopathology, personality dimensions, self-efficacy and social support. RESULTS: Recalled threat intensity increased from 6 to 24 months (P<0.001). Recall amplification was associated with lack of PTSD symptom improvement (P<0.05), but not with degree of exposure, immediate stress response, mood or stress symptoms, personality, self-efficacy or social support. CONCLUSIONS: Recall amplification of perceived life threat from a single stressful event occurs in the general population, it may hinder PTSD symptom improvement and it questions the diagnostic validity of PTSD.

Language: en