Chapter 6, Problem 1Q-P182

Summary Introduction

Concept introduction

Acute stress disorder (ASD) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are characterized by intense feelings of anxiety that are triggered by one or more stressful events. The aspects that they differ on are the duration of the disorders and the time of onset.

Explanation of Solution

Answer and explanation

ASD and PTSD occur in response to some traumatic or terrifying event. Various events can lead to the development of these disorders. Some of them are as follows:

Combat: One of the leading causes of PTSD and ASD is warfare. Military personnel deployed to active war zones face a lot of violence. As a result, many of them show signs of distress during their deployment (called shell-shock), while some come back and develop PTSD or ASD.

Terrorism: Due to constant exposure to violence, individuals who have been victims of terrorist attacks or those living in war-torn countries are likely to develop these disorders.

Disasters: Natural disasters, such as earthquakes, tsunamis, and hurricanes, lead to loss of property and life. As a result, the people who are affected can experience feelings of hopelessness and loss. These feelings are associated with the development of these stress disorders.

Victims of crime: People who have been victims of sexual assault and battery, robbery, kidnapping, or any of the countless other violent criminal offences are also at risk of developing PTSD and ASD.

Sudden bereavement: A sudden or unexpected death of a close friend or family member can make someone feel hopeless and turn their life upside-down. The risk of developing either of these disorders is high after the death of a loved one.

Witnessing violent deaths: Witnessing the death of someone else, such as a car crash, suicide or homicide, is also a risk factor for these disorders. Any disturbing or terrifying event can cause either of the two disorders.

Secondary trauma: Lastly, witnessing another person going through a traumatic incident can also cause PTSD. Most common in nurses, first responders, and mental health professionals, this type of trauma occurs when an individual hears the distressing description of the stressful experience of someone else.