PSY 3761 Week 4 Discussion: Post-Traumatic Stress
Post-Traumatic Stress
Currently, nearly 25 percent of U.S. troops returning from Iraq and Afghanistan suffer from PTSD. During WWII, approximately 10 percent of veterans suffered from PTSD or shell shock (as it was called then). Discuss the reasons for this escalation in numbers; why are the veterans of the war in the Middle East suffering from such high numbers of PTSD?
- Posts should read approximately 200 words in APA format, including any citations.

Sample Answer
The escalation in the prevalence of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among veterans returning from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan compared to previous conflicts like WWII can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the nature of modern warfare in the Middle East, characterized by prolonged deployments, guerrilla tactics, and constant exposure to asymmetric threats, poses significant psychological challenges to service members. Unlike the relatively defined frontlines of WWII, troops in Iraq and Afghanistan faced unpredictable environments, increasing the likelihood of traumatic experiences.
Moreover, advancements in medical care and protective gear have increased survival rates for soldiers exposed to life-threatening situations, leading to a higher number of individuals returning with physical injuries as well as psychological trauma. Additionally, the stigma surrounding mental health issues has gradually decreased over the years, encouraging more veterans to seek help for PTSD symptoms compared to past generations where mental health concerns were often overlooked or dismissed.
Furthermore, the societal and cultural context surrounding the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, including the controversial nature of the conflicts, prolonged deployments, and the challenges of reintegrating into civilian life, can exacerbate stressors and contribute to the development of PTSD among veterans. Overall, the combination of the unique characteristics of modern warfare, increased awareness and recognition of mental health issues, and the complex social and cultural factors surrounding the conflicts in the Middle East has led to the higher prevalence of PTSD among veterans compared to previous generations.
References:
Author, A. A., & Author, B. B. (Year). Title of the article. Title of the Journal, volume number(issue number), page range.