After returning from the Iraq war, Caddell was plagued by nightmares of the attacks. In addition, he avoided anything associated with the war and was hypervigilant for danger. He has been home for nearly six months, but these symptoms continue. Caddell might have ________.
A) acute stress disorder
B) a mood disorder
C) obsessive-compulsive disorder
D) post-traumatic stress disorder

Question

After returning from the Iraq war, Caddell was plagued by nightmares of the attacks. In addition, he avoided anything associated with the war and was hypervigilant for danger. He has been home for nearly six months, but these symptoms continue. Caddell might have ________.
A) acute stress disorder 
B) a mood disorder
C) obsessive-compulsive disorder
D) post-traumatic stress disorder

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Caddell's symptoms are consistent with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which can occur after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. Symptoms include nightmares, avoidance of triggers associated with the trauma, and hypervigilance. The fact that these symptoms have persisted for nearly six months suggests that it may be more than acute stress disorder, which typically only lasts for up to one month. Mood disorders and obsessive-compulsive disorder do not fully capture the symptoms described.

After Returning from the Iraq War, Caddell Was Plagued by Nightmares