Reference
Guide | Reference

61  Complex Trauma Pattern Prototype

61.1 Summary

  • A pattern of trauma-linked dysregulation with pervasive effects on self-concept, emotion regulation, and relationships.

61.2 Prototype Features

  • Chronic trauma history with persistent dysregulation.
  • Emotional numbing or volatility.
  • Relational instability, mistrust, or attachment disruptions.

61.3 Threshold Guidance

  • Use when trauma-linked symptoms are pervasive and span multiple domains of function.

61.4 Expected Domain Profile

  • Trauma and Stress Response: high.
  • Emotion Regulation and Interpersonal Pain: moderate to high.
  • Mood and Drive Dysregulation: variable.

61.5 Time-Course and Trajectory

  • Chronic and pervasive, often with episodic worsening.

61.6 Differential and Red Flags

  • Personality dysfunction without trauma linkage.
  • Substance effects or ongoing acute crises.
  • Neurodevelopmental factors affecting regulation.

61.7 Specifiers (treatment-relevant, non-prescriptive)

  • Course/time pattern (chronic, fluctuating).
  • Contributors (ongoing threat, developmental trauma).
  • Risk modifiers (self-harm, dissociation).

61.8 Measurement Prompts

  • Trauma symptom checklist with dissociation items.
  • Emotion regulation tracking.

61.10 Documentation Snippet (1-2 lines)

  • “Chronic trauma-linked dysregulation with relational instability; Trauma/Stress 4, Emotion Regulation 3; chronic course.”