Diagnostische und klinische aspekte der komplexen posttraumatischen belastungsstörung

The symptomatology of patients suffering in the aftermath of severe and prolonged traumatization is not entirely covered by the diagnostic criteria of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Consequently, the concept of complex PTSD was proposed, including symptoms of affective dysregulation, dissociation and somatization,alterations in self-perception, altered relationships with others, and altered systems of meaning. Thereby, a variety of symptoms usually classified as comorbid disorders are combined in a single etiological model. The whole symptomatology is considered as more or less effective adaptation strategies and not primarily as deficits. This understanding of the underlying etiology in subjects with complex traumatizations opens perspectives for new psychotherapeutic treatment strategies which have already shown effectiveness in daily practice.