J Korean Neuropsychiatr Assoc.  2020 Nov;59(4):285-292. 10.4306/jknpa.2020.59.4.285.

Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Cognitive Fucntioning: A Literature Review

• Han Yr
• Yun JA
• Choi KS

• KMID: 2510508
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.4306/jknpa.2020.59.4.285

Abstract

Cognitive deficits due to posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) affect patients’ social and occupational functioning and lead to social costs. Thus, it is important to understand the nature and extent of PTSD-related neurocognitive deficits to clarify the mechanisms underlying cognitive changes, identify factors that interfere with treatment, and help interpret clinical profiles. This study reviewed recent studies on the relationships between PTSD and neurocognitive domains. The magnitude of the influence of PTSD differs across cognitive function domains. Also, the extent of the effect on any given domain may also differ according to the type of trauma experienced by the subject. In addition to its negative effects on cognitive functioning, PTSD was associated with increased response to threats or trauma-related stimuli, which compromised task performance. Although each PTSD symptom may have a different effect on each cognitive function, it was difficult to generalize the results. This study is significant in that our conclusions, which emerged through a review of studies regarding the relationship between PTSD and cognitive functioning, provide a theoretical basis for further research.

Keyword

Stress disorders, post-traumatic; Cognitive functioning; Neuropsychological test; Memory; Attention; Learning; Executive function