Why Are Some People More Likely to Develop PTSD After a Traumatic Event?

Many people experience traumatic events at some point in their lifetime. However, not everyone who has experienced a traumatic event will eventually go on to develop PTSD. This has led researchers to investigate why some people may be at greater risk for developing PTSD following the experience of a traumatic event. A recent study suggests that some people may have a genetic vulnerability for developing PTSD. Specifically, this study indicates that the experience of extreme stress in childhood (in this study, childhood abuse), combined with a particular genetic vulnerability, may increase risk for PTSD later on in life following a traumatic event. You can learn more about this study at MSNBC.com.

You can also read more about risk factors for PTSD in the following articles:

• Traumatic Events Connected to PTSD
• What Increases Risk for PTSD?
• Acute Stress Disorder and Risk for Developing PTSD
• Risk Factors and Consequences of Sexual Assault
• Risk for PTSD Among Children of People with PTSD
• Risk for PTSD from Community Violence