Memory and identity processes in ICD-11 complex posttraumatic stress disorder: Tests of a new theory

This study empirically tested several predictions arising from the Memory and Identity (M&I) Theory of ICD-11 Complex PTSD (CPTSD). Specifically, it examined the psychometric properties of two measures-the Experiences of Traumatic Memories Questionnaire (ETMQ) and the Trauma Identity Questionnaire (TIQ)-and tested relationships between different types of trauma exposure, disturbances in memory and identity, and CPTSD symptoms. Data were collected from a non-probability based representative sample of the general adult population of the United Kingdom (N = 975), and latent variable modelling was used to test all hypotheses. Confirmatory factor analytic results provided support for the psychometric properties of the ETMQ and TIQ as measures of traumatic memories and negative identities. Multiple traumatization and interpersonal forms of trauma were associated with more disturbances in trauma memories and negative identities. Seven of the nine model-predicted associations between trauma memories, negative identities, and CPTSD symptoms were observed, including a link between a fragmented sense of self and emotional numbing. Results support core elements of the M&I Theory, highlighting trauma memory and identity disturbances as key mechanisms in CPTSD.