Express Diagnostics of Symptoms of Acute and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Using Projective Test

Objective: The objective of the article is to study the projective potential of drawing methods in the diagnosis of traumatic disorders; as well as to develop and verify criteria for assessing the symptoms of ASR and PTSD that are revealed in drawings. Theoretical Framework: Within the framework of the tasks set, attention was focused on international diagnostic standards (ICD-10-CM, ICD-11, DSM-5) and national clinical protocols that determine the procedure for diagnosing Acute Stress Reaction and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder. Method: The methodology combines theoretical and empirical methods. Using the IES-R, the participants were divided into experimental and control groups. Correlation analysis (according to the Pearson and Student criteria) and interpretative methods were used to interpret the data. Data collection was carried out in the form of drawings using the “Man in the Rain” technique. Results and Discussion: A statistically significant relationship was found between the frequency of representation of some graphic markers and symptoms of stress disorders. Thus, a static pose, accumulation of drops around a person and hyperbolized raindrops were associated with the symptoms of flashbacks. The symptom of conscious avoidance of the traumatic event reminders was indicated in the drawings by the no clouds, avoidance of face imaging and schematic drawing of a person. A persistent high level of anxiety and suspicion is expressed by strong pressure, excessive hatching and sharp corners. Research Implications: The practical implications of this study are the development of a new method for express diagnosis of ASR and PTSD, focused on specific individual reactions, which allows to detect symptoms of these disorders at an early stage, avoiding conscious distortion of facts. This technique is a useful tool in the work of psychologists, doctors, emergency services workers, teachers and social workers. Originality/Value: This study makes a valuable theoretical contribution to extreme, crisis psychology, pathopsychology, psychodiagnostics, military psychology through the conceptual development of a new understanding of stress disorders and methodological innovations in their diagnosis.