Influence of trauma type on feigned Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) symptom profiles

Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is susceptible to feigning and it can be challenging to differentiate between genuine and feigned cases. Past studies have shown that in genuine cases the symptom profiles varies as a function of trauma type; but it is less clear if this variation occurs for feigned PTSD. Sixty participants were randomly assigned to one of two experimental conditions. In both conditions the participants were coached about PTSD, and then they were instructed to feign PTSD, as if for financial gain. The trigger event in the conditions was manipulated in a vignette and this was depicted as a sexual assault (SA) or a motor vehicle collision (MVC). The effects were measured via standardized measures for PTSD symptoms (PCL-5) and profile invalidity (Structured Inventory of Malingered Symptomology [SIMS]). The PCL-5 scores of the participants were indicative of PTSD. There were no statistically significant group differences on either measure at the overall or subscale level. Unlike the pattern for genuine PTSD, the symptom profile for simulated PTSD did not differ by trauma type. If understanding of these profiles can be further developed, it may assist clinicians when evaluating feigned PTSD