Cognitive model of PTSD by Ehlers and Clark

5 important questions on Cognitive model of PTSD by Ehlers and Clark

What are the key components outlined in Ehlers and Clark's (2000) cognitive model of PTSD as depicted in the diagram?

- Characteristics of trauma, prior experiences, beliefs, coping state of the individual
- Cognitive processing during trauma
- Negative appraisals of trauma and its sequelae
- Nature of trauma memory
- Matching triggers for the traumatic memory
- Perceived current threat which includes intrusions, arousal symptoms, and strong emotions
- Strategies intended to control the perceived threat and symptoms

How are the relationships between characteristics, cognitive processing, appraisals, memory, triggers, threats, and strategies depicted in the cognitive model of PTSD?

- The characteristics influence cognitive processing during trauma.
- Cognitive processing during trauma influences both the nature of trauma memory and the negative appraisals of trauma.
- Memory and appraisals contribute to matching triggers and the perception of current threat.
- The perception of a current threat contributes to strategies intended to manage threat and symptoms.
- Arrows indicate the direction of influence between components.

What example of trauma-focused cognitive behavior therapy in a traumatized female child is provided, and how does it relate to the cognitive model of PTSD?

- Characteristic of trauma included molestation by a cousin and unresolved grief, such as the loss of brothers.
- Cognitive processing included thoughts like "Nobody is there for me" and "I'm responsible for the incident."
- Negative appraisals involved sentiments such as deserving to experience bad things and lack of protection from parents.
- The nature of trauma memory was feeling trapped in a locked room.
- Triggers included awakening early and avoiding adolescent boys.
- Perceived current threat encompassed fears of bad things happening when alone, irritability, and anger outbursts.
- Strategies used to control these included avoiding being alone and always clinging to family members.
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How does the brain function differently under stress, affecting the development of PTSD?

- The brain focuses on survival during trauma, causing it to not make sense
- Sensory aspects dominate, with victims focusing on escaping or distancing themselves
- Victims often remember surroundings but not the weapon used
- There are more intrusions post-trauma, with random frames of trauma without context
- Activating the visuospatial sketchpad after a trauma prevents PTSD development

What are the first-line treatment recommendations for PTSD?

- EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (e.g., prolonged exposure therapy)
- Narrative Exposure Therapy in refugee camps, involving less intense trauma therapy by volunteers

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