How often have you had repeated, disturbing, and unwanted memories of the stressful experience?
FAQs
What is the PTSD Symptom Scale Interview (PSS-I-5)?
The PSS-I-5 is a 20-item semi-structured interview designed to assess the severity of PTSD symptoms based on DSM-5 criteria.
Who developed the PSS-I-5 and when?
Developed by Edna B. Foa and colleagues in 2016; updated version of the PSS-I for DSM-5.
What type of assessment is the PSS-I-5?
It is a semi-structured clinical interview for PTSD symptom assessment.
What does the PSS-I-5 assess?
- Intrusion symptoms (nightmares, flashbacks)
- Avoidance of trauma reminders
- Negative alterations in cognitions and mood
- Alterations in arousal and reactivity
- PTSD symptom severity and functional impairment
How many items and what format?
20 items, rated 0-3 (0=None, 1=Mild, 2=Moderate, 3=Severe).
How is the PSS-I-5 scored?
Total score 0-60; scores ≥23 suggest probable PTSD diagnosis.
Are there versions of the PSS-I-5?
PSS-I for DSM-IV; PSS-I-5 for DSM-5; PSS-SR self-report version.
Who can use the PSS-I-5?
Adults who have experienced trauma; administered by trained clinicians.
What are the strengths of the PSS-I-5?
Excellent psychometric properties, good convergent validity, widely used in research.
What are the limitations of the PSS-I-5?
Requires trained interviewer; time-intensive; not a diagnostic tool alone.
How is the PSS-I-5 used?
Clinical assessment, treatment planning, research, outcome measurement.