Psychometric properties of the Ukrainian version of Dissociative Subtype of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Scale (DSPS).

Background

The dissociative subtype of posttraumatic stress disorder (D-PTSD) was introduced in the DSM-5 to identify individuals with PTSD who experience dissociative symptoms, such as derealization and depersonalization. The Dissociative Subtype of PTSD Scale (DSPS) was developed to assess these symptoms but has yet to be validated in Ukrainian, a necessity due to the psychological impact of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Objective

This study aimed to develop and validate the Ukrainian version of the DSPS, examining its psychometric properties in a sample of trauma-exposed Ukrainian individuals.

Methods

1,119 Ukrainian participants, recruited using convenience and snowball sampling, took part in an online study assessing dissociative symptoms with the DSPS as well as symptoms of PTSD, depression, generalized anxiety disorder, somatic symptom disorder, and fear of sleep with established questionnaires. DSPS factor structure, internal consistency, and convergent and discriminant validity were assessed.

Results

Confirmatory factor analysis confirmed the three-factor structure of the DSPS (derealization/depersonalization, loss of awareness, and psychogenic amnesia) with acceptable model fit indices for both lifetime and current severity items. Internal consistency was high for lifetime and current total scales (Cronbach's alpha = 0.83-0.87). Significant correlations with PTSD, depression, anxiety, and somatic symptoms were in the expected size-ranges, supporting convergent and discriminant validity.

Conclusions

The Ukrainian DSPS demonstrated robust psychometric properties, validating its use as a reliable and valid tool for assessing dissociative symptoms in individuals exposed to war-related trauma. Its adaptation fills a critical gap in the diagnostic landscape, enabling timely intervention for trauma-exposed populations in Ukraine.