The memory and identity theory of ICD-11 complex posttraumatic stress disorder.

Abstract in brief

• The 11th edition of ICD-11 recognizes complex posttraumatic stress disorder (CPTSD) as a separate diagnosis from PTSD, characterized by three PTSD symptoms (reexperiencing, avoidance, threat perception) and three disturbance symptoms (negative self-concept, affective dysregulation, relational issues), all indicating profound self-organization disruptions.
• A memory and identity theory explains CPTSD by proposing that trauma exposure, especially prolonged or repeated, interacts with individual vulnerabilities to generate intrusive, sensation-based traumatic memories and negative identities, which contribute to the disorder's symptoms—these processes exist on a continuum from pre-reflective experience to conscious self-awareness.
• The theory offers insights for assessing and treating CPTSD, stressing the importance of addressing intrusive memories and negative identities, and highlights the need for further research and testing to better understand the development and heterogeneity of the disorder.]