The relationship between posttraumatic stress disorder and high and low-capacity working memory

Author/Creator

Author/Creator ORCID

Date

2013-03-08

Department

Towson University. Department of Psychology

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Citation of Original Publication

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There are no restrictions on access to this document. An internet release form signed by the author to display this document online is on file with Towson University Special Collections and Archives.

Subjects

Abstract

High and low working memory capacity in relation to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptomology was investigated. Working memory capacity was determined through both verbal and visual working memory tasks; a letter-numbering sequencing task and a visual serial working memory task. PTSD symptomology was measured using the civilian version of the post-traumatic stress disorder checklist (PCL-C). Undergraduate college students over the age of 18 participated in the study and results were computed using a multiple regression analysis and principle components factor analysis. The correlation between the working memory task and the PCL-C was not statistically significant, support for a positive relationship between working memory capacity and PTSD symptoms was not found. Future research should address a PTSD diagnosed or at-risk population using the verbal and visual working memory scales presented in the current study.