What is the Trauma Screening Questionnaire?

The Trauma Screening Questionnaire (TSQ) is a brief, validated screening tool designed to identify individuals who may be experiencing Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) following a traumatic event. It consists of 10 yes/no questions about re-experiencing and arousal symptoms that have occurred in the past week.

What does this assessment measure?

The TSQ measures two core symptom clusters of PTSD: re-experiencing symptoms (intrusive memories, nightmares, flashbacks) and hyperarousal symptoms (heightened alertness, irritability, sleep problems). It was designed to be administered 2-4 weeks after trauma exposure to identify individuals who may develop chronic PTSD.

How is the TSQ scored?

Each of the 10 items is answered with Yes (1 point) or No (0 points). Total scores range from 0 to 10. A score of 6 or higher indicates a positive screen, suggesting the individual should receive a comprehensive PTSD assessment. The TSQ is highly sensitive and specific for predicting PTSD diagnosis.

What do the scores mean?

Low (0-2): Minimal PTSD symptoms, unlikely to develop chronic PTSD. Moderate (3-5): Some trauma symptoms present, monitor for development of PTSD. High (6-10): Positive screen for probable PTSD - comprehensive evaluation strongly recommended. Professional assessment needed.

When should this assessment be used?

The TSQ is designed for use 2-4 weeks after a traumatic event. Traumatic events may include: serious accidents, physical or sexual assault, combat exposure, natural disasters, witnessing death or serious injury, sudden death of a loved one, or any life-threatening event. If you experienced trauma recently, this screening can help determine if you need professional support.

Clinical validation and research

The TSQ has been extensively validated in multiple populations including accident survivors, assault victims, emergency responders, and military personnel. Research shows it has excellent sensitivity (0.86) and specificity (0.93) for predicting PTSD when the cutoff score of 6 is used. It's widely used in emergency departments, trauma centers, and disaster response settings.

Important considerations

The TSQ is a screening tool, not a diagnostic instrument. A positive screen indicates the need for comprehensive clinical evaluation but does not confirm a PTSD diagnosis. Conversely, a negative screen does not rule out PTSD entirely. This assessment should be used as part of a broader trauma-informed care approach and should not replace professional clinical judgment.

When to seek immediate help

If you're experiencing thoughts of harming yourself or others, severe panic attacks, complete inability to function, or dissociative episodes, please seek immediate professional help. Contact emergency services, go to the nearest emergency room, or call a crisis hotline. PTSD is highly treatable with evidence-based interventions including trauma-focused CBT and EMDR.