Free Gender Role Test: Explore Your Traits and Patterns

20 Questions

3 minutes

Unlike single-event PTSD, Complex PTSD results from chronic, inescapable trauma. Grounded in the World Health Organization’s ICD-11 framework and the International Trauma Questionnaire (ITQ), this tool screens for both core trauma symptoms and specific emotional dysregulation markers.

Please note: This assessment is for educational insight only. It does not replace a professional diagnosis by a licensed mental health practitioner.

Using the key below, please indicate how much each statement has applied to you over the past month. (Scale: 1 = Not at all, 2 = A little bit, 3 = Moderately, 4 = Quite a bit, 5 = Extremely)

Disagree

Neutral

Agree

1.

I frequently have unwanted, upsetting memories or flashbacks of the traumatic events, appearing as if they are happening right now.
Disagree
Agree
2.

I have strong physical reactions (like heart pounding or sweating) when something reminds me of the stressful experiences.
Disagree
Agree
3.

I go out of my way to avoid thoughts, feelings, or conversations that remind me of the trauma.
Disagree
Agree
4.

I make a concerted effort to avoid people, places, or situations that trigger memories of my past experiences.
Disagree
Agree
5.

I feel constantly "on guard," watchful, or jumpy, even when there is no apparent danger.
Disagree
Agree
6.

I startle very easily at sudden noises or movements and take a long time to calm down.
Disagree
Agree
7.

I find it extremely difficult to calm myself down when I get upset; my emotions feel out of control or overwhelming.
Disagree
Agree
8.

When I am stressed, I tend to feel emotionally numb or shut down completely, unable to feel anything (dissociation).
Disagree
Agree
9.

I often feel like I am "broken," permanently damaged, or fundamentally different from other people.
Disagree
Agree
10.

I carry a deep sense of shame or guilt about the traumatic events, feeling that they were somehow my fault.
Disagree
Agree
11.

I feel completely worthless or like a failure as a human being.
Disagree
Agree
12.

I treat myself harshly or criticize myself constantly, even for small mistakes.
Disagree
Agree
13.

I find it nearly impossible to feel close to other people, even those who try to support me.
Disagree
Agree
14.

I avoid getting close to people because I fear they will eventually hurt me, abandon me, or take advantage of me.
Disagree
Agree
15.

I struggle to maintain relationships; they either feel too intense and chaotic or I withdraw and isolate myself.
Disagree
Agree
16.

I rarely share my true feelings or struggles with others because I don't trust anyone to understand or care.
Disagree
Agree
17.

I often feel aggressive or irritable towards others without a clear reason, pushing them away.
Disagree
Agree
18.

I have engaged in reckless or self-destructive behaviors (substance use, self-harm, risky driving) to cope with my distress.
Disagree
Agree
19.

I feel that my life has no meaning or purpose because of what happened to me.
Disagree
Agree
20.

I feel exhausted by the constant effort it takes just to function and appear "normal" to the outside world.
Disagree
Agree

Disclaimer: TherapyDen’s online assessments are for informational and educational purposes only and are not medical or mental-health diagnoses. Do not start, change, or stop treatment based on results. Only a licensed clinician can diagnose. Not for children under 13.

We do not link your answers to your identity. Limited technical data may be collected for site functionality and analytics; manage choices in our Privacy Policy and Cookie Preferences, including “Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information” where applicable. We do not use your responses for advertising or share them with advertisers.

If you are in crisis, call 988 (U.S.) or your local emergency number.

Methodology & Limitations

This assessment is structured around the ICD-11 diagnostic criteria for Complex PTSD and utilizes the framework of the International Trauma Questionnaire (ITQ). It specifically evaluates the two required pillars: core PTSD symptoms and Disturbances in Self-Organization (DSO). Note: This is an educational screening tool, not a clinical diagnosis. It cannot replace a comprehensive evaluation by a trauma-informed mental health professional.

Sources
  • World Health Organization (WHO): ICD-11 Classification of Mental and Behavioural Disorders (Definition of C-PTSD).
  • Cloitre, M., et al. (2018): The International Trauma Questionnaire (ITQ): Development of a self-report measure of ICD-11 PTSD and Complex PTSD.
  • Maercker, A., et al. (2013): Diagnosis and classification of disorders specifically associated with stress.
  • Brewin, C. R. (2020): Complex PTSD: A review of the new ICD-11 diagnosis.
Privacy Note for the Test

We understand that trauma is a deeply personal and sensitive topic. This test is completely anonymous and untracked. Your answers are processed locally in your browser and are never stored on our servers or linked to your identity. For full details on our data protection, please review our policy at https://www.therapyden.com/privacy-terms.

How Scoring Works

The test uses a 5-point Likert scale ranging from "Not at all" (1) to "Extremely" (5).

Total Score: Responses are summed to identify symptom clusters.

Interpretation: A high score indicates the presence of both "Re-experiencing/Avoidance" (PTSD) and "Disturbances in Self-Organization" (Affect, Negative Self-Concept, Relationship issues). This combination is the clinical hallmark that differentiates C-PTSD from standard PTSD or Borderline Personality Disorder.

Interpreting Your Results

If your score suggests signs of Complex PTSD (C-PTSD), take a breath. A high score on this screening tool is not a clinical diagnosis. It indicates that your answers match the symptom patterns associated with prolonged, repeated trauma as defined by the ICD-11 framework.

This result is a tool to help you name your experience - validating that what you feel isn't just "in your head," but a recognized physiological response to chronic stress.

Recommended Next Steps:

  • Validate, don't diagnose: Use these results to start a conversation, not to label yourself permanently.
  • Seek trauma-informed care: If you choose therapy, look for a clinician who understands the "stabilization phase" - building safety skills before diving into traumatic memories.
  • Track your triggers: Note what happened right before you felt a mood shift or flashback over the next two weeks to share with a professional.

The Difference Between PTSD and Complex PTSD

While they share core features, C-PTSD is distinct because it stems from trauma where escape felt impossible (e.g., childhood neglect, domestic abuse). It includes all standard PTSD symptoms plus "Disturbances in Self-Organization" (DSO).

Feature

PTSD (The "Threat" Response)

Complex PTSD (The "Self" Disturbance)

Primary Trigger

Often a single event or short-term crisis.

Prolonged, repetitive trauma with no escape.

Core Symptoms

Re-experiencing, Avoidance, Hypervigilance.

All PTSD symptoms PLUS the 3 DSO markers below.

Emotional Regulation

High anxiety or panic attacks specific to triggers.

Severe difficulty calming down, persistent numbness, or rage.

Self-Concept

Negative beliefs related to the specific event.

Deep shame, feeling fundamentally "broken" or worthless.

Relationships

Strain due to symptoms (withdrawal).

Chronic difficulty feeling safe, trusting, or staying close to others.

Frequently Asked Questions About Complex PTSD

Navigating the confusion of a toxic relationship or understanding your own trauma response can be isolating. We have compiled the most critical questions regarding diagnosis, symptoms, and recovery to help provide clarity on your next right step.

Is Complex PTSD an officially recognized diagnosis?

Yes, in the World Health Organization's ICD-11. While the US DSM-5-TR does not yet list it separately, the global medical community recognizes C-PTSD as a distinct condition requiring a specific treatment approach (often focusing on relationship building and emotional regulation first).

Can C-PTSD be mistaken for Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)?

Yes, misdiagnosis is common because both involve emotional intensity and relationship struggles. However, a trauma-informed evaluation looks for the specific DSO (Disturbances in Self-Organization) pattern combined with a history of chronic trauma. Accurate diagnosis is vital because the treatment pacing differs significantly.

Why do I often feel "numb" or "checked out"?

This is likely dissociation - a biological survival strategy. When a threat feels inescapable, the nervous system may "freeze" or shut down to block pain. Over time, this becomes a learned response to stress. Therapy helps retrain the nervous system to stay present without being overwhelmed.

What does "Negative Self-Concept" actually mean?

It is more than just low self-esteem. In C-PTSD, it often manifests as a core belief that you are fundamentally damaged, unlovable, or responsible for the abuse. This is often the result of internalizing the abuser's voice or trying to make sense of the trauma ("It happened because I am bad").

Is recovery possible?

Absolutely. Recovery doesn't mean erasing the past, but ensuring it no longer controls your present. Evidence-based treatments like EMDR, Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), and Internal Family Systems (IFS) can help reduce triggers, restore emotional range, and rebuild a sense of safety in your own body.

Content Integrity & Clinical Standards

Curated by: The TherapyDen Editorial Team

Basis of Analysis: World Health Organization's ICD-11 Framework & International Trauma Questionnaire (ITQ).

Review Process: This content assumes a clinical perspective but prioritizes educational clarity. Every question is mapped to specific diagnostic criteria (including the three Disturbances in Self-Organization clusters) identified in the cited peer-reviewed literature below.

Recommended tests

OCD Test
OCD Test for Adults: Free Self-Assessment
Burnout test
Is it burnout or just workplace stress?
BPD Test
Do you struggle with borderline traits?
Bipolar Test
Do your moods swing between highs and lows?

QR Code

Free Gender Role Test: Explore Your Traits and Patterns

QR Code