On structure of trauma-related stress reactions among people with diabetes mellitus

The factorial structure of trauma-related stress reactions was explored using the Purdue Posttraumatic Stress Disorder revised scale, in a sample of 106 adults with insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. An exploratory factor analysis yielded 2 factors, (a) arousal and passive cognitive-affective avoidance reactions and (b) re-experiencing and active avoidance reactions. The 2-factor structure, however, may also be reflective of the scale format which limits its interpretative power.