Trauma History Screen [THS]

Instrument Description

The Trauma History Screen (THS) is an assessment tool designed to document an individual’s history of exposure to traumatic events across the lifespan. It was developed to provide a relatively brief and structured method for identifying traumatic experiences and the emotional reactions associated with them.

Aim

The main aims of the THS are to record exposure to different types of traumatic events, such as natural disasters, accidents, violence, or abuse, and to assess the emotional and psychological reactions that followed these experiences. The information obtained may also support further clinical assessment and treatment planning.

Structure and Dimensions

The THS includes questions focused on identifying specific traumatic events and the individual’s immediate emotional responses. The items are structured to cover a broad range of potentially traumatic experiences.

The main dimensions addressed include the type of trauma, the emotional response, and the timing and immediate impact of the event on the individual.

Data Analysis and Use

THS data can be used to examine the relationship between exposure to traumatic experiences and subsequent psychological outcomes, including the development of post-traumatic stress symptoms or other mental health conditions.

Scoring and Interpretation

Assessment may involve counting the total number of traumatic events experienced by the individual and evaluating the severity of the associated emotional reactions. The instrument can help identify individuals who may require more comprehensive assessment or additional support because of their trauma exposure.

Applications

The THS can be used in clinical and research settings for the systematic documentation of traumatic experiences and for examining their relationship with mental health outcomes. It functions primarily as a screening and history-taking instrument, rather than as a stand-alone diagnostic tool.

References

Carlson, E. B., & Smith, S. R. (1997). Development and validation of a screen for traumatic events and symptoms. Psychological Assessment, 9(4), 445–451.

Hooper, L. M., Stockton, P., Krupnick, J. L., & Green, B. L. (2011). Development, use, and psychometric properties of the Trauma History Questionnaire. Journal of Loss and Trauma, 16(3), 258–283.

Weathers, F. W., Blake, D. D., Schnurr, P. P., Kaloupek, D. G., Marx, B. P., & Keane, T. M. (2013). The Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale for DSM-5 (CAPS-5). National Center for PTSD.