Post traumatic stress disorder: an evolving concept

This inductive inquiry used Rodgers' evolutionary view of concept analysis to define the concept post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Medline, a computerized database, was used to generate the literature sample. Based on the analysis, PTSD was defined as a complex varying psychological and biological response to an acute stressor experienced directly or indirectly, or to chronic stress. PTSD is detrimental to normal functioning of individuals. People who had prolonged exposure to a stressor, who felt guilt for their own actions, and who had a less adequate support system had more severe symptoms. Future research is needed to find ways to prevent or minimize development of PTSD.