Psychometric properties of the posttraumatic cognitions inventory (PTCI): A replication with motor vehicle accident survivors

Authors

J. Gayle Beck, University at Buffalo, The State University of New YorkFollow
Scott F. Coffey, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York
Sarah A. Palyo, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York
Berglind Gudmundsdottir, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York
Luana M. Miller, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York
Craig R. Colder, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York

Abstract

This study examined the factor structure, internal consistency, concurrent validity, discriminant validity, and discriminative validity of the Posttraumatic Cognitions Inventory (PTCI; E. B. Foa, A. Ehlers, D. M. Clark, D. F. Tolin, & S. M. Orsillo, 1999) in a sample of 112 individuals who had experienced a serious motor vehicle accident. Results generally supported the 3-factor structure of the PTCI: (a) Negative Cognitions About Self, (b) Negative Cognitions About the World, and (c) Self-Blame. Subscales reflecting negative thoughts of the self and world showed adequate internal consistency, as well as good concurrent, discriminant, and discriminative validity. However, difficulties with the subscale representing self-blame emerged, specifically poor concurrent and discriminant validity. Potential reasons for this finding are discussed. The PTCI seems to be a promising measure of negative and dysfunctional posttrauma cognitions, which deserves continuing attention.

Publication Title

Psychological Assessment

Recommended Citation

Beck, J., Coffey, S., Palyo, S., Gudmundsdottir, B., Miller, L., & Colder, C. (2004). Psychometric properties of the posttraumatic cognitions inventory (PTCI): A replication with motor vehicle accident survivors. Psychological Assessment, 16 (3), 289-298. https://doi.org/10.1037/1040-3590.16.3.289