Chapter 3: Problem 4

Do you think that PTSD should be classified as a form of anxiety disorder? Should it be included with the dissociative disorders? Why?

Short Answer

Expert verified

In conclusion, PTSD shares some similarities with both anxiety and dissociative disorders, but it also has unique characteristics that set it apart. While it may have features that align with anxiety disorders, such as hyperarousal and avoidance, the dissociative aspects - like flashbacks and detachment - make the case for a more complex classification. Upon weighing the evidence, it would be appropriate to consider PTSD as its own separate category within the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), as it encompasses elements of both anxiety and dissociative disorders, and requires specialized treatment and understanding.

Step by step solution

Understand PTSD, Anxiety, and Dissociative Disorders

Begin by researching and understanding the characteristics and symptoms of PTSD, anxiety disorders, and dissociative disorders. This will provide the necessary foundation to form an educated opinion on the classification of PTSD.

Compare PTSD to Anxiety Disorders

Compare the symptoms and characteristics of PTSD to anxiety disorders. List the similarities and differences between the two. Address whether the similarities are strong enough to warrant PTSD being classified within anxiety disorders.

Compare PTSD to Dissociative Disorders

Now, compare the symptoms and characteristics of PTSD to dissociative disorders. As with the previous step, list similarities and differences between the two and discuss whether these similarities justify classifying PTSD within dissociative disorders.

Consider Other Classification Options

Explore whether there are other classification options for PTSD, perhaps as its own category within the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). Discuss the reasons why this may or may not be appropriate.

Weigh the Evidence

Review the evidence and arguments gathered in steps 2, 3, and 4. Weigh the strengths and weaknesses of each argument and form a well-supported opinion about the most appropriate classification for PTSD.

Write the Conclusion

Conclude the discussion by stating your opinion and summarizing the evidence which supports your stance. Acknowledge both sides of the argument, and explain why your chosen classification is the most fitting for PTSD. With this 6-step guide, you should be able to construct a well-researched and convincing argument about the classification of PTSD within the anxiety or dissociative disorder categories or as its own separate category.

Unlock Step-by-Step Solutions & Ace Your Exams!

Full Textbook Solutions
Get detailed explanations and key concepts
Unlimited Al creation
Al flashcards, explanations, exams and more...
Ads-free access
To over 500 millions flashcards
Money-back guarantee
We refund you if you fail your exam.

Start your free trial

Over 30 million students worldwide already upgrade their learning with Vaia!

Recommended explanations on Psychology Textbooks

View all explanations

What do you think about this solution?

We value your feedback to improve our textbook solutions.

Do you think that PTSD should be classified as a form of anxiety disorder? Should it be included with the dissociative disorders? Why?

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Understand PTSD, Anxiety, and Dissociative Disorders

Compare PTSD to Anxiety Disorders

Compare PTSD to Dissociative Disorders

Consider Other Classification Options

Weigh the Evidence

Write the Conclusion

One App. One Place for Learning.

Most popular questions from this chapter

Recommended explanations on Psychology Textbooks

Developmental Psychology

Eating Behaviour

Social Psychology

Biopsychology

Cognition and Development

Sensation and Perception

Study anywhere. Anytime. Across all devices.