The German version of the Modified PTSD Symptom Scale (MPSS): first psychometric findings on a screening instrument for posttraumatic symptomatology

Background: Most self-rating scales on posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptomatology do not inquire about the severity of symptoms; moreover, th ey often key symptoms to a known trauma. Objective: We investigated the psy chometric properties of a screening instrument, which yields scores for bot h frequency and intensity, and can be used independently of a known trauma. Methods: The Modified PTSD Symptom Scale (MPSS) was given to a heterogeneo us sample of 103 psychiatric inpatients, who also underwent a standardized interview (DIA-X). Results: Cronbachs Alpha ranged between .88 and .94. The correct classification between MPSS and DIA-X PTSD diagnoses was between 6 5 % and 82 %. Conclusions: It proved clinically useful that the MPSS also c overs the severity of PTSD symptoms and could be administered independently of a known trauma history.