Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is primarily characterized by what?

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is primarily characterized by the failure to recover after experiencing a traumatic event. This disorder can emerge following exposure to a life-threatening event or injury, causing lasting emotional and psychological disturbances. Individuals suffering from PTSD often re-experience the traumatic event through flashbacks, nightmares, or intrusive thoughts, which can interfere significantly with daily function and mental health.

The other options do not align with the primary characteristics of PTSD. Strong mood swings may occur in various mental health conditions but are not a defining feature of PTSD. Persistent feelings of joy would be contradictory to the experiences of those affected by PTSD, as the disorder often results in feelings of distress, anxiety, or sadness. Additionally, while difficulty concentrating can be a symptom associated with PTSD, it is not the primary defining characteristic of the disorder. Instead, the inability to move forward emotionally and psychologically after a trauma is central to the understanding and diagnosis of PTSD.