Supervisor Name] Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Following Research Paper

Open, View, and/or
Download this Document

Total Length: 1303 words ( 4 double-spaced pages)

Total Sources: 4

Page 1 of 4

Supervisor Name]

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Following an unusual and an unexpected event, that is stressful, such as being diagnosed with cancer, one may develop characteristic symptoms that may differ slightly from person to person. This normal human response has been classified into two broad categories; adjustment disorder and post traumatic stress disorder. (Nicholas A., Nicki R., Brian R., and John A.A.)

Post traumatic stress disorder is a type of response, which has a delayed onset and is of a prolonged nature, to events that are particularly threatening in quality, for example, being part of, or witnessing an earthquake. Slightly differing from the novel definition, this disorder can also occur with events that may not be life threatening. According to the diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders, PTSD can occur due to an actual or even a threatened death or injury to oneself or to others. Needless to say, the incident or incidents must only be perceived as threatening by the individual. Recent evidence indicates that PTSD can also result from distressing medical treatments, sexual abuse or bullying. (Nicholas A., Nicki R., Brian R., and John A.A. )

In a survey conducted regarding bone marrow chemotherapy and PTSD amongst women, using the DSM-IV criteria, twelve to nineteen percent of the patients were suffering from symptoms of this disorder. According to this study, PTSD was related to poorer physical and mental health and lack of sleep.

The term post-traumatic stress disorder was first coined in the mid 1970s, which included the post-Vietnam syndrome. Dating back from this era, this disorder was mostly and exclusively only observed in military personnel. However, recently, as a result of modern living, PTSD has entered the gateway of institutions, offices and homes. With an increase in technological advances, widespread warfare, global communication and the war on terror, there has been a greater scope for traumatic imagery. Media, too, could have played a greater role by portraying non-traumatic incidents in an exaggerated stressful manner.

Stuck Writing Your "Supervisor Name] Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Following" Research Paper?

View All Our Example Supervisor Name] Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Following Research Paper

Have A Custom Example Essay Written



The symptoms of PTSD are divided into primary and secondary. The primary symptoms form the basis of the DSM criteria. The secondary symptoms are associated features which have been observed to coexist with the disorder, but do not form part of the diagnostic criteria. (Kirtland C., Maurice F., and Robert A. 11-35)

To be classified as a PTSD sufferer, there needs to be a recognizable stress factor, which would evoke a response of distress in most people, along with a combination of symptoms. These symptoms include: (Kirtland C., Maurice F., and Robert A. 11-35)

1) Re-experiencing the incident either through recall of memories, repeated dreams of the event or a sudden feeling as if the traumatic event was about to re-occur through an association of environmental stimulus. These nightmares or typical flashbacks cause the patient to be in a state of anxiety, symptoms of autonomic arousal, emotional blunting and avoidance of situations which evoke these flashbacks. (Kirtland C., Maurice F., and Robert A. 11-35)

2) Decreased interest in the present surrounding, following the trauma, as shown through decreased responsiveness, feeling of aloofness from people and a constrained affect. (Kirtland C., Maurice F., and Robert A. 11-35)

At least two of the following qualities that were not present before the traumatic incidence need to be present: (Kirtland C., Maurice F., and Robert A. 11-35)

1) Increased alertness or an exaggerated startle response to a stimulus.

2) Irregular sleep patters or a decreased quality in sleep.

3) Feeling of guilt about survival.

4) Decreased concentration and memory.

5) Avoidance of activities that evoke memories of the traumatic event.

6) Intensification of symptoms with exposure to events or conversations that resemble or remind one of the incidents.

The secondary symptoms include anxiety and depression, which are usually associated with PTSD. Excessive use of alcohol or abusing drugs frequently complicates the clinical condition. (Kirtland C., Maurice F., and Robert A. 11-35)

PTSD is a dynamic, complex.....

Show More ⇣

     Open the full completed essay and source list


OR

     Order a one-of-a-kind custom essay on this topic


sample essay writing service

Cite This Resource:

Latest APA Format (6th edition)

Copy Reference
"Supervisor Name Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder PTSD Following" (2011, May 14) Retrieved June 3, 2026, from
https://www.aceyourpaper.com/essays/supervisor-name-post-traumatic-stress-disorder-84260

Latest MLA Format (8th edition)

Copy Reference
"Supervisor Name Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder PTSD Following" 14 May 2011. Web.3 June. 2026. <
https://www.aceyourpaper.com/essays/supervisor-name-post-traumatic-stress-disorder-84260>

Latest Chicago Format (16th edition)

Copy Reference
"Supervisor Name Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder PTSD Following", 14 May 2011, Accessed.3 June. 2026,
https://www.aceyourpaper.com/essays/supervisor-name-post-traumatic-stress-disorder-84260
   

Open, View, and/or
Download this Document
order custom essay example