Psychological Disorders and the Iraq War

Paper Summary:

The paper reveals that the Iraq war has highlighted the negative affects of combat stress and tension in a number of studies of returning and active duty troops. The paper notes the high incidence of post-traumatic stress and explains that this is due to the guerrilla-war nature of the conflict. The paper shows how Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) has seriously debilitating and often long-term consequences for the individual sufferer. The paper maintains that PTSD and other related psychological problems as result of the Iraq war can no longer be ignored.

Outline:
Introduction and Overview
PTSD and other Psychological Issues

From the Paper:

"Research show that, conservatively, about thirty percent of troops returning from Iraq have to deal with PTSD or post traumatic stress disorder, among other psychological disorders. One of the aspects that are mentioned as a contributing factor to the high levels of stress in this war is the particular nature of the conflict. As one commentator notes; "This war has no front line, the enemy is impossible to identify, the dangers are everywhere. There is no safe place." (Hare) The stressful nature of the combat situation where danger and threat are continuous has led clinical psychologists to state that, "Nobody comes back unaffected." (Hare) "

Sample of Sources Used:

• Casualties of war. April 21, 2007.http://www.theage.com.au/news/world/casualties-of-war/2005/10/26/1130302840559.html?page=3
• Hare M. 2007. Army psychologist using new ways to treat Stress. April 20, 2007. http://www.democratandchronicle.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070422/NEWS0201/704220321/-1/COLUMNS
• Finer J. 2006. Frontline Care for 'At Risk' Soldiers: Army Effort Treats Psychological Trauma at Source. April 20, 2007. http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/06/07/AR2006060702390_pf.html
• Friedman M. J. Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: An Overview. Retrieved April 20, 2007, from http://www.vac-acc.gc.ca/clients/sub.cfm?source=mhealth/factsheets/overview
• Foa, E., & Meadows, E. (1997). Psychosocial Treatments for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: A Critical Review. 449+ (1997) Retrieved April 22, 2007, from Questia database: http://www.questia.com/PM.qst?a=o&d=5000413895

More papers on Psychological Disorders and the Iraq War:

• Analytical Essay # 132327 : "The American Presidency and the Iraq War"
• Book Review # 128012 : "Review of Keegan's "The Iraq War"
• Analytical Essay # 114287 : "Military Health Policy"

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