Which cluster is part of the DSM-5-TR criteria for PTSD?

• A. Intrusion symptoms include recurrent distressing memories or dreams.
• B. Positive mood changes are required.
• C. Compulsive behaviors are a core feature.
• D. Exposure to trauma with intrusion, avoidance, negative cognitions/mood, and hyperarousal; symptoms persist for more than one month.

Answer: (D)

PTSD diagnosis in DSM-5-TR rests on experiencing a traumatic event and then showing a specific pattern of symptoms that fall into four clusters: intrusive memories or dreams (re-experiencing), avoidance of reminders, negative changes in thoughts and mood, and increased arousal or reactivity. In addition, the symptoms must persist for more than one month and cause clinically significant distress or impairment.

The option that describes exposure to trauma along with the full set of symptom clusters—intrusion, avoidance, negative cognitions/mood, and hyperarousal—and notes that these symptoms last longer than a month, best fits the DSM-5-TR criteria. It captures both the breadth of symptom clusters and the duration criterion.

Why the other choices aren’t correct: Intrusion symptoms are indeed part of PTSD, but stating them alone does not address the full array of clusters or the duration requirement. Positive mood changes are not required for PTSD and, in fact, PTSD often involves negative mood/symptoms. Compulsive behaviors are not a core feature of PTSD and are more associated with other disorders like OCD.