Date of Award
2021
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Bachelors
Department
Natural Sciences
Second Department
Social Sciences
First Advisor
Leininger, Elizabeth
Area of Concentration
Neurobiology
Abstract
Most beings who live on earth will at some point experience stress that is potentially traumatic. Some humans will experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)’s persistent impacts on their neural functioning which may disrupt aspects of their cognitive, physical, and social abilities. This work explores some of what the field of neuroscience currently understands about the systems and processes that underlie the development, symptomatology, and theories of healing of post-traumatic stress disorder. Chapter one is centered around how the sensory system informs the stress response, and introduces key brain regions - namely the amygdala, prefrontal cortex, hippocampus - and concepts such as neurotransmission. The second chapter defines trauma, touches on factors that influence propensity toward post-traumatic stress, and describes the neurobiology underlying PTSD symptoms. Pharmaceutical and plant-based treatments, various therapy styles, coping mechanisms, and active stress-cycle interventions are discussed through a neuroscientific lens in the third and final chapter. The author’s original illustrations are incorporated throughout the work, with the hopes to bring a greater level of accessibility to the diverse community impacted by the complex and influential field of trauma research.
Recommended Citation
Bates, Elizabeth, "AN ILLUSTRATED GUIDE TO SOME OF THE NEUROSCIENCE OF POST-TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER" (2021). Theses & ETDs. 6029.
https://digitalcommons.ncf.edu/theses_etds/6029