PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5)

A 20-item self-report measure that assesses the 20 DSM-5 symptoms of PTSD. It can be used for screening, diagnosis (via PCL-5 with LEC-5 and CEF), and monitoring symptom change.

1. Repeated, disturbing, and unwanted memories of the stressful experience?

2. Repeated, disturbing dreams of the stressful experience?

3. Suddenly feeling or acting as if the stressful experience were actually happening again (as if you were actually back there reliving it)?

4. Feeling very upset when something reminded you of the stressful experience?

5. Having strong physical reactions when something reminded you of the stressful experience (for example, heart pounding, trouble breathing, sweating)?

6. Avoiding memories, thoughts, or feelings related to the stressful experience?

7. Avoiding external reminders of the stressful experience (for example, people, places, conversations, activities, objects, or situations)?

8. Trouble remembering important parts of the stressful experience?

9. Having strong negative beliefs about yourself, other people, or the world (for example, having thoughts such as: I am bad, there is something seriously wrong with me, no one can be trusted, the world is completely dangerous)?

10. Blaming yourself or someone else for the stressful experience or what happened after it?

11. Having strong negative feelings such as fear, horror, anger, guilt, or shame?

12. Loss of interest in activities that you used to enjoy?

13. Feeling distant or cut off from other people?

14. Trouble experiencing positive feelings (for example, being unable to feel happiness or have loving feelings for people close to you)?

15. Irritable behavior, angry outbursts, or acting aggressively?

16. Taking too many risks or doing things that could cause you harm?

17. Being 'superalert' or watchful or on guard?

18. Feeling jumpy or easily startled?

19. Having difficulty concentrating?

20. Trouble falling or staying asleep?

Note: The PCL-5 maps directly onto DSM-5 PTSD criteria. Cluster B = intrusion (items 1-5), Cluster C = avoidance (items 6-7), Cluster D = negative alterations (items 8-14), Cluster E = arousal (items 15-20).

Scoring Table

Parameter	Points
Response Values	Not at all: 0 points A little bit: 1 points Moderately: 2 points Quite a bit: 3 points Extremely: 4 points

Interpretation

Category	Score Range	Action
● Minimal PTSD symptoms	0-31	Minimal symptoms; monitor if clinically indicated.
● Moderate PTSD symptoms	32-49	Moderate symptoms; clinical evaluation and treatment planning recommended.
● Severe PTSD symptoms	50-80	Severe symptoms; urgent referral for trauma-focused therapy and/or pharmacotherapy.

References

The PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5). U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs / National Center for PTSD (2013). https://www.ptsd.va.gov/professional/assessment/adult-sr/ptsd-checklist.asp
PCL-5 Initial Translation and Validation. Journal of Traumatic Stress (2015). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25904136/

Medical Disclaimer

This calculator is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

PCL-5 is a screening/diagnostic aid, not a standalone diagnostic instrument.
A comprehensive trauma history (LEC-5) and functional impairment assessment (CEF) are required for DSM-5 PTSD diagnosis.
Scores can fluctuate with recent stressors; repeat assessments may be needed.

PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5)

Scoring Table

Interpretation

References

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