Links between personality functioning and post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms: a network analysis

Abstract

ABSTRACT Background: The study investigates the association between personality functioning (PF) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms in a large naturalistic clinical sample using a network analytical approach. Objectives: It aims to determine whether the previously observed link between PF and PTSD persists after controlling for frequent comorbidities (depression, anxiety and somatic symptoms), and to identify bridges connecting both clinical constructs. Methods: A regularised partial correlation network between PF, PTSD, as well as depression, anxiety and somatic symptoms was estimated at the total scale, subdomain and item level. For this aim, data from the Multicenter Effectiveness Study of Inpatient Psychosomatic Psychotherapeutic Treatment (MEPP) were reanalysed, comprising an overall N = 1899 patients (Age: M = 39.73y, SD = 14.11, range = 18–84; female = 69%). Results: A robust conditional association between PF and PTSD (E = .31) was observed. Among PF subdomains, self-perception (E = .18), and relationship model (E = .21) showed direct links to PTSD. Symptom-level analysis identified negative beliefs (PTSD) and self-esteem, interpersonal distrust and affective dysregulation (PF) as the central bridge nodes connecting both constructs. Conclusions: The relationship between personality functioning and PTSD is specific and distinct from general distress. A treatment focus on negative self-perception, interpersonal (dis)trust and affective regulation might be a promising pathway for symptom reduction, specifically in patients with comorbid PTSD and PF impairments. Trial registration: German Clinical Trials Register identifier: DRKS00016412..