Key determinants of the MMPI-PTSD subscale: treatment considerations.
Seventy-five "in country" Vietnam combat psychiatric inpatients were given a battery of measures upon admission to the medical center. These included the MMPI, VETS Adjustment Scale, State-Trait Anxiety Scale, Rotter Locus of Control, Profile of Mood Scale, and a variation of the Figley Stress Scale that measures current stress. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) was determined by the MMPI-PTSD subscale. Ten of the battery variables were used as predictors for a multiple regression analysis on the MMPI-PTSD subscale. Results yielded a multiple R of .89 for two predictors, Figley Stress Scale and Rotter Locus of Control (external). Patients with PTSD, therefore, suffer most from perceived and experienced current stressors and a low sense of control. Arguments are made for more present-centered and interpersonal strategies in the treatment of PTSD combat veterans.
D000328:Adult; D003130:Combat Disorders / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy*; D006801:Humans; D008950:MMPI; D008297:Male; D011594:Psychometrics; D011613:Psychotherapy / Q000379:methods*; D013313:Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic / Q000628:therapy*; D014744:Vietnam