Criterion validity of the self-rating inventory for posttraumatic stress disorder (SRIP) in the community of older adults

W. H. Van Zelst, E. De Beurs, A. T.F. Beekman, D. J.H. Deeg, I. Bramsen, R. Van Dyck

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleAcademicpeer-review

49 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Background: A validated screening instrument for PTSD in community dwelling older people is lacking. This study evaluates a newly developed measure, the self-rating inventory for posttraumatic stress disorder (SRIP) on its usefulness in survey research. The predictive value of the SRIP in a community setting is investigated. Methods: In a two-phase epidemiologic design the criterion validity of the SRIP was tested against diagnosis made with the comprehensive international diagnostic interview (CIDI) in 1721 older (55-90 years) inhabitants of the Netherlands. Optimal sensitivity and specificity was determined using a weighted receiver operator characteristic (ROC)-curve. Results: Optimal sensitivity (74.2%) and specificity (81.4%) was reached with a cut-off of 39 points. Limitations: According to a strictly applied CIDI algorithm the number of 'true' cases was limited. Conclusion: Overall findings indicate that posttraumatic stress disorder can be identified adequately in a community-based population of older adults using the SRIP. Use of the SRIP may improve recognition and diagnosis of posttraumatic stress disorder in the community.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)229-235
Number of pages7
JournalJournal of affective disorders
Volume76
Issue number1-3
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Sept 2003

Keywords

  • Community
  • Older adults
  • Posttraumatic stress disorder
  • Screening-instrument
  • Validity

Cite this