Complex-Posttraumatic Stress Disorder - Cultural Adaptation of a Therapeutic Manual and Development of a Culture-specific Diagnostic Module for Refugee Populations in Switzerland (Pilot Trial)

In January 2022, the World Health Organization (WHO) launched the 11th edition of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11). This diagnostic manual includes the new diagnosis of complex post-traumatic stress disorder (CPTSD). This new diagnostic category describes difficulties that may arise as a result of multiple, prolonged or repeated trauma, from which it is difficult or impossible to escape, such as torture, domestic violence or childhood sexual abuse. People affected by CPTSD often have difficulty regulating their emotions and maintaining relationships with others, and they often show a negative self-concept. Evidence from the field of cultural clinical psychology indicates cultural variation in the CPTSD symptoms across different cultural groups. In addition, psychopathology is shaped by structural factors such as inequality and/or discrimination. This research project aims to highlight such cultural and structural aspects related to PTSD and CPTSD among refugee populations in Switzerland. A diagnostic interview and a therapeutic manual will be culturally adapted and pilot tested with a small sample (n = 24).