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Post-traumatic stress disorder without the trauma
1Department of Psychology, University of Manchester, UK.
The British Journal of Clinical Psychology
|February 1, 1994
Summary
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can develop without a single, acute trauma. The study proposes distinguishing PTSD from prolonged duress stress disorder (PDSD) based on stressor type, impacting treatment approaches.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Psychology
- Trauma Studies
Background:
- Current diagnostic criteria for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) require a single, acute traumatic event.
- This definition may not encompass all cases presenting with PTSD symptomatology.
Observation:
- The study presents cases of PTSD with full symptomatology (intrusive imagery, avoidance, disordered arousal) occurring without a singular, acute traumatic incident.
- Evidence suggests that acute trauma is neither a necessary nor a sufficient condition for developing PTSD.
Findings:
- A single, acute trauma is not essential for PTSD development.
- The study identifies two distinct pathways to stress disorders: post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and prolonged duress stress disorder (PDSD).
Implications:
- The findings suggest a need to revise PTSD diagnostic criteria to include prolonged or enduring stressors.
- Distinguishing between PTSD and PDSD may lead to more tailored and effective treatment strategies for stress-related disorders.