RORSCHACH MEASURES OF POSTTRAUMATIC STRESS IN PERSIAN-GULF-WAR VETERANS

The effectiveness of the Rorschach in detecting acute posttraumatic st ress (PTS) in Persian Gulf War veterans was investigated. Subjects wer e 30 U.S. Marine Reservists who reported experiencing symptoms of PTS after 3 months of active duty in Operation Desert Storm. Subjects were administered the Rorschach and MMPI-2 soon after their return from th e Persian Gulf War. Results showed acute distress, a vulnerable capaci ty for coping and control, and a tendency to be overwhelmed by interna l and external stimulation. Selected Rorschach variables were signific antly related in a conceptually valid manner to MMPI-2 scales associat ed with defensiveness, coping ability, and PTS. These findings are dis cussed in relation to the assessment, understanding, and treatment of PTS symptomatology and posttraumatic stress disorder.