Complex PTSD symptom clusters and executive function in UK Armed Forces veterans: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

Abstract Background: Less is known about complex posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) than PTSD in military veterans, yet this population may be at greater risk of the former diagnosis. Executive function impairment has been linked to PTSD treatment outcomes. The current study therefore aimed to explore possible associations between each complex PTSD symptom cluster and executive function to understand if similar treatment trajectories might be observed with the disorder. Methods: A total of 428 veterans from a national charity responded to a self-report questionnaire which measured complex PTSD symptom clusters using the International Trauma Questionnaire, and executive function using the Adult Executive Function Inventory. Single and multiple linear regression models were used to analyse the relationship between complex PTSD symptom clusters and executive function, including working memory and inhibition. Results: Each complex PTSD symptom cluster was significantly associated with higher executive function impairment, even after controlling for possible mental health confounding variables. Emotion dysregulation was the complex PTSD symptom cluster most strongly associated with executive function impairment. Conclusions: This is the first study to explore the relationship between executive function and complex PTSD symptom clusters. The study builds on previous findings and suggests that executive function could be relevant to complex PTSD treatment trajectories, as is the case with PTSD alone. Future research should further explore such clinical implications.