PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5) — PTSD Symptom Severity Quiz
Likert-scale measure of PTSD symptom severity across DSM-5 clusters.
The PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5) is a standardized, self-report measure used to assess the presence and severity of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms in line with DSM-5 criteria. This PCL-5 quiz, designed for the Mental Health category, helps you quickly evaluate core symptom clusters—intrusion, avoidance, negative alterations in cognition and mood, and alterations in arousal and reactivity—using a simple Likert scale. Whether you're tracking symptoms over time, preparing for a clinical discussion, or seeking greater self-awareness, this validated-style checklist provides a clear, actionable symptom score.
This online version of the PCL-5 quiz is optimized for clarity and easy interpretation. It is SEO-focused to help people searching for PTSD tests, PCL-5 assessments, and DSM-5 symptom checklists find reliable, relevant information. Note: this self-report tool is not a substitute for a clinical diagnosis. If your score is elevated or if you have concerns about suicidal thoughts, safety, or daily functioning, contact a qualified mental health professional immediately.
Repeated, disturbing memories of the stressful experience?
Intrusive thoughts or memories that come up unexpectedly.
Repeated, upsetting dreams or nightmares about the stressful experience?
Suddenly feeling or acting as if the stressful experience were happening again (flashbacks)?
Intense psychological distress when reminded of the stressful experience?
Strong emotional reactions to cues or reminders.
Physiological reactions (e.g., heart pounding, sweating) when reminded of the stressful experience?
Avoiding thoughts or conversations about the stressful experience?
Deliberately steering clear of internal reminders.
Avoiding external reminders such as people, places, or activities that remind you of the stressful experience?
Trouble remembering important parts of the stressful experience?
Memory gaps or inability to recall key aspects.
Persistent and exaggerated negative beliefs about yourself, others, or the world?
Examples: 'I am bad,' 'No one can be trusted,' or 'The world is completely dangerous.'
Persistent distorted blame of yourself or others about the cause or consequences of the stressful experience?
Persistent negative emotional state (e.g., fear, horror, anger, guilt, or shame)?
Markedly diminished interest or participation in significant activities?
Loss of interest in work, hobbies, social activities, or relationships.
Feeling distant or cut off from other people?
Inability to experience positive emotions (e.g., happiness, satisfaction, or loving feelings)?
Irritable behavior, angry outbursts, or aggressive actions?
Sudden anger or outbursts beyond typical reactions.
Reckless or self-destructive behavior?
Risk-taking or behaviors that could harm yourself or others.
Hypervigilance (being overly watchful or on guard)?
Exaggerated startle response (jumpiness)?
Problems with concentration (difficulty focusing on tasks)?
Trouble falling or staying asleep (sleep disturbance)?
Includes difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or restless sleep.
Frequently asked questions
The PCL-5 (PTSD Checklist for DSM-5) is a standardized self-report questionnaire that measures the severity of PTSD symptoms corresponding to DSM-5 diagnostic criteria. It assesses four symptom clusters: intrusion, avoidance, negative alterations in cognition and mood, and alterations in arousal and reactivity.
No. This PCL-5 quiz is a screening and symptom-monitoring tool. While a score above a common cutoff (often 33) suggests probable PTSD, only a qualified mental health professional can make an official diagnosis after a full clinical evaluation.
Each of the 20 items is rated on a 0–4 Likert scale (Not at all to Extremely), producing a total score from 0 to 80. Higher scores indicate greater symptom severity. Use score ranges as a guide: lower scores indicate minimal symptoms, and scores at or above commonly used thresholds (e.g., 33) suggest the need for further clinical assessment.
For monitoring purposes, many clinicians recommend retaking the PCL-5 every 2–4 weeks during active treatment or when symptoms are changing. If you are not in treatment, consider reassessing monthly or whenever there is a notable change in symptoms.
If your score reaches the threshold for probable PTSD, schedule an appointment with a mental health professional experienced in trauma. Evidence-based treatments include trauma-focused CBT, cognitive processing therapy (CPT), prolonged exposure (PE), and EMDR. If you are in crisis or have suicidal thoughts, seek immediate emergency help or crisis services.
The PCL-5 itself is confidential in spirit, but confidentiality depends on the platform you use. This quiz provides results for personal use and to inform clinical conversations. Do not share sensitive information in public settings and check the privacy policy of the website or app where you take the quiz.
Yes. Repeated administration of the PCL-5 during treatment can help track symptom change and treatment response over time. Clinicians often use it to measure baseline severity and to monitor improvements or worsening of symptoms.
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