Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Traumatic events are highly distressing experiences that overwhelm an individual's ability to cope. These events can include accidents, natural disasters, violence, abuse, or other life-threatening situations.
A psychological disorder characterized by intense fear, anxiety, flashbacks, nightmares, and intrusive thoughts following exposure to a traumatic event.
The ability to bounce back and recover from adverse experiences or trauma.
Fight-or-flight Response: An automatic physiological response triggered by the perception of threat or danger which prepares the body for either confrontational action or escape.