Hyperarousal in PTSD typically includes which features?

Hyperarousal in PTSD typically includes which features?

• A. Persistent expectation of danger and sleep disturbance
• B. Reduced startle response
• C. Lack of memory for the event
• D. Increased social engagement

Answer: (A)

Hyperarousal in PTSD reflects a heightened state of alertness and reactivity. People experience ongoing readiness for danger, which shows up as hypervigilance—constantly scanning the environment for threats and having trouble relaxing. Sleep disturbance is also common, including difficulty falling or staying asleep and nightmares, because the nervous system remains on edge. This combination of vigilance and sleep problems is characteristic of the arousal/reactivity cluster. The other features described don’t fit hyperarousal: a reduced startle response would indicate diminished reactivity, whereas PTSD typically involves an exaggerated startle. Lack of memory for the event is more about dissociative or intrusion symptoms, not arousal. Increased social engagement runs counter to the withdrawal and avoidance patterns often seen with PTSD, and isn’t a hallmark of hyperarousal.

Hyperarousal in PTSD reflects a heightened state of alertness and reactivity. People experience ongoing readiness for danger, which shows up as hypervigilance—constantly scanning the environment for threats and having trouble relaxing. Sleep disturbance is also common, including difficulty falling or staying asleep and nightmares, because the nervous system remains on edge. This combination of vigilance and sleep problems is characteristic of the arousal/reactivity cluster.

The other features described don’t fit hyperarousal: a reduced startle response would indicate diminished reactivity, whereas PTSD typically involves an exaggerated startle. Lack of memory for the event is more about dissociative or intrusion symptoms, not arousal. Increased social engagement runs counter to the withdrawal and avoidance patterns often seen with PTSD, and isn’t a hallmark of hyperarousal.