Post Traumatic Stress Disorder Theory and Assessment

History of PTSD

  • Early Recognition: Psychological distress due to traumatic events was acknowledged by ancient Greeks, who described symptoms resembling those of modern-day PTSD. This early recognition laid the groundwork for understanding the impact of trauma on mental health.

  • Modern Recognition: Traumatic stress disorders gained significant attention during the First World War, where soldiers exhibited symptoms of severe anxiety and emotional distress, collectively termed ‘shell shock’. This highlighted the need for psychological assessment and treatment for returning veterans, marking a pivotal moment in the recognition of trauma-related disorders in clinical psychology.

Case Example (I)

  • Identification of PTSD Symptoms: Researchers noted various symptoms and functionalities impacted by PTSD, including persistent re-experiencing of trauma, avoidance of trauma reminders, negative alterations in cognition and mood, and heightened arousal or reactivity. Clinical assessments became essential for diagnosing and understanding the diverse expressions of PTSD.

Case Example (II)

Sarah’s Background

  • Demographics: Sarah is a 32-year-old woman who served in the military for six years, completing two combat tours in Yugoslavia. Her background highlights how repeated exposure to combat situations increases the likelihood of developing PTSD symptoms later in life.

  • Trauma Exposure: Sarah experienced a range of traumatic events, including witnessing the deaths of comrades and direct engagements in life-threatening situations during combat, which significantly contributed to her psychological distress.

  • Symptoms:

    • Vivid memories and distressing intrusive thoughts, particularly related to witnessing a friend's death, which serve as constant reminders of her trauma.

    • Frequent nightmares and flashbacks reliving traumatic events, disrupting her sleep and daily functioning.

Sarah’s Psychological Distress

  • Trigger Reactions: Sarah experiences intense psychological distress and physical reactions when encountering trauma-related cues (e.g., loud noises reminiscent of gunfire, crowded spaces that remind her of military deployments, and specific smells associated with combat).

  • Avoidance Behavior: She actively avoids activities, places, and social gatherings that could trigger her memories, further isolating her from friends and family and limiting her ability to reconnect with civilian life.

  • Impaired Functionality: Sarah struggles with sleep disturbances, has panic episodes upon waking, experiences difficulties in maintaining concentration at work, and finds it challenging to complete everyday tasks effectively due to her overwhelming anxiety and flashbacks.

  • Interpersonal Relations: Reports of irritability and impatience are common among those suffering from PTSD. Sarah’s family members note significant changes in her behavior and emotional responses, indicating strains in her interpersonal relationships, which are critical for her recovery and support.