PTSD is characterized by re-experiencing trauma through flashbacks, nightmares, and intrusive thoughts.

• A. It is a temporary condition
• B. It is unrelated to trauma
• C. It is a lengthy mood disorder
• D. It involves re-experiencing trauma through flashbacks, nightmares, and intrusive thoughts

Answer: (D)

PTSD is defined by re-experiencing a traumatic event through intrusion symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, and intrusive thoughts. This re-experiencing is a central feature that distinguishes PTSD from other conditions, making the statement that describes these intrusive experiences the best match. PTSD develops after exposure to a traumatic event and lasts longer than a month, causing significant distress or impairment. It is not a temporary condition, not unrelated to trauma, and not simply a mood disorder—it’s a trauma- and stressor-related disorder with intrusion as a core symptom.