PTSD Test (PCL-5)
20-item version — DSM-5-based PTSD symptom assessment
Have you experienced a traumatic event that still affects you? The PCL-5 assesses trauma-related symptom severity based on DSM-5 criteria. 20 items, about 5-10 minutes.
Have you been through something traumatic?
The PCL-5 is a 20-item checklist that screens for PTSD symptoms. It maps onto the DSM-5 criteria: intrusive memories, avoidance, negative changes in thinking and mood, and changes in arousal and reactivity. About 8 minutes.
The U.S. National Center for PTSD created it as an update to the original PCL, aligning it with DSM-5 criteria released in 2013.
Quick stats
- Internal consistency: alpha = 0.94-0.96
- Test-retest reliability: r = 0.82 (within a week)
- Cutoff 31-33 suggests probable PTSD (varies by population)
- Score range: 0-80
A note
This is a screening tool, not a diagnostic interview. A high score doesn't mean you have PTSD — it means you should consider talking to a professional who can do a proper evaluation.
Scoring Guide
20 items, 5-point scale (0=Not at all, 4=Extremely). Total 0-80. Cutoff ≥33 suggests probable PTSD. Four clusters: B-Intrusion(1-5), C-Avoidance(6-7), D-Negative alterations(8-14), E-Hyperarousal(15-20). Weathers et al. (2013).Result Interpretation
Finish the 20 questions and you get your results straight away — no account, no sign-up, no waiting.
We calculate your total from your answers, then give you a plain-language explanation of what the numbers mean. Whenever possible, we also show how your results compare to population norms.
详细报告 📊
Get an in-depth analysis with dimension breakdowns, population comparisons, and actionable recommendations.