Brewin et al. (2009).

Question 1

What are the three criticisms of PTSD?

Answer 1

1. PTSD pathologises normal distress
2. Criterion A is inadequate
3. Symptom overlaps with other disorders

Question 2

How do Brewin et al. respond to the three criticisms?

Answer 2

1. Difference between pathological and “normal” distress (can be severe, long-lasting, persistent) - failure to adapt + different neurobiological profile
2. Fair enough
3. Factor analysis: re-experience, avoidance, dysphoria, hyperarousal clusters for PTSD; distinct for PTSD: flashbacks + nightmares

Question 3

Why do Brewin et al. argue that criterion A is obsolete?

Answer 3

Not effectively restricting prevalence
Symptoms of PTSD after traumatic event anyway (no need to restrict events)
Does not increase diagnostic precision

Question 4

What is Brewin et al.’s suggestion for the non-A criteria, and why?

Answer 4

Reduce amount of symptoms to more distinctive set
- Fewer items just as good in screening
- Re-experiencing + multi-sensory images + fear is the core

Question 5

What are the core symptoms Brewin et al. suggest to include in the diagnosis?

Answer 5

Re-experiencing
Avoidance
Hyper-arousal
Duration (>1 month)
Impairement