Complex PTSD (CPTSD-ITQ) Test

The International Trauma Questionnaire (ITQ) is a psychological assessment tool designed to measure symptoms associated with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Complex PTSD (C-PTSD) in accordance with the criteria outlined in the 11th edition of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11). It is commonly used in both clinical and research settings to identify the presence and severity of trauma-related symptoms in individuals who have experienced one or more traumatic events.

The ITQ is structured to capture two primary diagnostic categories. The first is PTSD, which includes three core symptom clusters: re-experiencing the trauma in the present (e.g., flashbacks or nightmares), avoidance of trauma-related thoughts or reminders, and a persistent sense of threat manifested through hypervigilance or exaggerated startle responses. The second category is C-PTSD, which includes the symptoms of PTSD along with three additional clusters related to disturbances in self-organization (DSO). These are affective dysregulation (problems with emotional regulation, such as intense anger or emotional numbness), negative self-concept (feelings of worthlessness, shame, or guilt), and interpersonal disturbances (difficulty maintaining relationships or feeling disconnected from others).

The ITQ typically contains 18 symptom items, each rated by the individual based on how frequently or severely they experience the symptom. Responses are usually recorded on a Likert scale, allowing clinicians and researchers to assess both the presence and intensity of each symptom. Additionally, the questionnaire includes items that assess functional impairment in key areas of life, such as relationships, work, or general well-being, which helps determine whether the symptoms significantly interfere with the individual's daily functioning.

The development of the ITQ was grounded in extensive research, including psychometric analyses and clinical validation studies. It was developed by a team of international experts in trauma and psychopathology, including Dr. Marylène Cloitre, and has since been translated into numerous languages. Its brevity and clear structure make it a practical tool for use in diverse populations and settings, from mental health clinics to humanitarian aid contexts.

One of the strengths of the ITQ is its alignment with ICD-11, which distinguishes it from many other trauma assessments based on the DSM-5 criteria. The ICD-11's recognition of C-PTSD as a separate and distinct diagnosis from PTSD marks a significant advancement in trauma-related diagnostics, and the ITQ is the first and primary instrument developed to reflect this distinction accurately. This specificity is especially important for identifying individuals who may require more intensive or specialized treatment approaches due to the chronic and pervasive nature of C-PTSD symptoms.

In practice, the ITQ provides clinicians with a reliable way to tailor treatment plans to the individual's unique symptom profile. It also facilitates outcome tracking over time, allowing for the evaluation of therapeutic effectiveness. As understanding of trauma and its impacts continues to evolve, tools like the ITQ play a vital role in advancing both clinical care and trauma research.