Neurophysiological mechanisms underlying development of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder – selected issues
Keywords:
neurophysiology of trauma, psychological trauma, neurobiology, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, effects of psychological trauma on brain developmentAbstract
Within the past 20 years, the progress in brain imaging techniques and new biochemical methods has led to increased understanding of the biological effects of psychological trauma and development of PTSD. As a result, we now understand that psychological trauma disrupts homeostasis and can cause both short- and long-term effects on many organs and systems of the body. For instance, neurobiological studies have shown that the noradrenergic stress-system is involved in enhanced encoding of emotional ‘memories, sensitization, and fear conditioning, by way of its effects on the amygdala. In this paper, evidence on intrusive memories and deficits in declarative memory function in PTSD-patients is reviewed in relation to three brain areas that are involved in memory functioning and the stress response: the hippocampus, amygdala, and the prefrontal cortex. By way of its influence on these brain structures, exposure to severe stress may simultaneously result in strong emotional reactions and in difficulties to recall the traumatic event. Our expanding knowledge of the effects of trauma on the body has inspired new approaches to treating trauma survivors. Biologically oriented therapy addresses the physiological effects of trauma, as well as cognitive distortions and maladaptive behaviors.
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