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Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale for DSM-5
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About Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale for DSM-5
Scale Name
Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale for DSM-5
Author Details
Frank W. Weathers, David D. Blake, Patricia P. Schnurr, Danny G. Kaloupek, Brett T. Litz, Thomas M. Keane
Translation Availability
Not Sure

Background/Description
The Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale for DSM-5 (CAPS-5) is a structured interview that serves as the gold standard for diagnosing and assessing PTSD. It was developed to align with the criteria specified in the DSM-5, making it an essential tool for both clinical and research settings. The CAPS-5 evaluates 20 PTSD symptoms, including their onset, duration, and impact on daily functioning, as well as the overall severity and dissociative subtype symptoms. It replaces the earlier version based on DSM-IV, incorporating significant updates to better capture the nuances of PTSD as defined in DSM-5.
Administration, Scoring and Interpretation
- Preparation: Ensure the interviewer is trained and familiar with PTSD and the CAPS-5 structure. Identify a single index traumatic event for symptom inquiry.
- Interview: The CAPS-5 consists of 30 items, with standardized questions and probes for each symptom. The interview assesses current, lifetime, and past week PTSD symptoms.
- Time: The full interview typically takes 45-60 minutes.
Reliability and Validity
The CAPS-5 is recognized for its excellent reliability and validity. It has undergone extensive testing and validation to ensure it accurately measures PTSD symptoms and severity. The standardized administration and scoring processes contribute to its consistency and reliability across different populations and settings.
Available Versions
Maltiple-Items
Reference
Weathers, F. W., Bovin, M. J., Lee, D. J., Sloan, D. M., Schnurr, P. P., Kaloupek, D. G., … & Marx, B. P. (2015). Clinician-administered ptsd scale for DSM-5. Psychological Assessment.
Weathers, F. W., Bovin, M. J., Lee, D. J., Sloan, D. M., Schnurr, P. P., Kaloupek, D. G., … & Marx, B. P. (2018). The Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale for DSM–5 (CAPS-5): Development and initial psychometric evaluation in military veterans. Psychological assessment, 30(3), 383.
Important Link
Scale File:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the CAPS-5 used for?
The CAPS-5 is used for diagnosing PTSD and assessing PTSD symptom severity.
How long does it take to administer the CAPS-5?
The interview typically takes between 45 and 60 minutes.
Who can administer the CAPS-5?
It is designed for clinicians and clinical researchers with PTSD knowledge but can also be administered by trained paraprofessionals.
What makes the CAPS-5 the gold standard for PTSD assessment?
Its comprehensive approach, alignment with DSM-5 criteria, and proven reliability and validity make it the gold standard.
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