Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 11, 2026

Polar Histogram Visualization of Acute Stress Disorder Scale Scores for Comprehensive Clinical Assessment
Published on: December 6, 2024
Intrusive experiences and hyperarousal in acute stress disorder
Sally Hopwood1, Richard A Bryant
1School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia.
Objective:
This study investigated the relationship between hyperarousal, intrusions, and dissociative experiences in acute stress disorder (ASD).
Method:
Trauma survivors with ASD (n=30) and without ASD (n=30) completed either a hyperventilation provocation test (HVPT) or a non-hyperventilating control procedure whilst monitoring intrusive experiences. Participants then completed the Physical Reactions Scale and the Peritraumatic Dissociative Experiences Questionnaire.
Results:
Whereas the hyperventilation procedure resulted in an increase in the number of intrusions for ASD participants, the hyperventilation procedure resulted in a decrease in the number of intrusions for non-ASD participants. Contrary to expectations, there was no differences in dissociative reactions across group or condition.
Conclusions:
These findings provide evidence that intrusive phenomenon are directly associated with elevated states of arousal for individuals with ASD.
Related Concept Videos
Post-traumatic Stress Disorder
Symptoms and Behavioral Manifestations
A spectrum of distressing symptoms characterizes PTSD. Recurrent flashbacks, where individuals involuntarily relive traumatic events, are a...
Introduction to Stress and Lifestyle
Psychological Responses to Stress
Physiological Foundation of Stress
Role of the Sympathetic Nervous System
Adrenaline triggers the...
Traumatic Memory
Stress and Mental Health
Individuals with depression often experience challenges in both their personal and professional...
