Comparisons of the PTSD-only group with the PTSD/MDD group indicated that those in the former group reported relatively more childhood sexual abuse; and those in the PTSD/MDD group reported relatively more distorted trauma-related beliefs, dissociation, PTSD severity, and depression severity. Distorted trauma-related beliefs and dissociation were the strongest distinctive predictors of more severe PTSD and depressive symptoms. Rates of PTSD/MDD did not appear to be a function of symptom overlap. Further research is needed in order to assist in increasing the understanding of PTSD/MDD and the distinctive factors in PTSD and depression constructs. This increased understanding should guide intervention efforts with female victims of interpersonal violence. Study participants were 162 adult female rape or first-degree assault victims who participated in a clinical trial designed to examine cognitive processing therapy as an intervention. Participants were at least 18 years old, had been victimized at least 3 months ago, met DSM-IV criteria for PTSD, were not currently in an abusive intimate relationship, and had been out of a relationship involving marital rape or violence for at least 6 months. Various instruments were used to diagnose PTSD, depression, childhood physical abuse, childhood sexual abuse, physical assault victimization, sexual assault victimization as an adult, trauma-related beliefs, and dissociative responses and trauma avoidance. 3 tables and 52 references