What does the acronym PCL-C stand for in trauma screening?

The acronym PCL-C stands for the Civilian PTSD Checklist. This tool is commonly used in trauma screening to assess symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in individuals who have experienced traumatic events. The checklist is designed to help clinicians evaluate the presence and severity of PTSD symptoms in civilian populations, making it a vital component in understanding and conducting assessments related to trauma.

The use of the term "civilian" specifies its relevance to individuals who may face trauma outside of military contexts, differentiating it from other PTSD assessment tools intended for military or veteran populations. This specificity ensures that the PCL-C addresses the unique experiences and symptoms that civilians may encounter following traumatic events, thereby providing an accurate and sensitive measure for diagnosis and treatment planning.

In contrast, other given options either pertain to different populations, contexts, or conditions. Thus, PCL-C's focus on civilian PTSD symptoms solidifies its position as an essential screening instrument in trauma-informed care.