Antwone Fisher

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Antwone Fisher presents characteristics consistent with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (American Psychiatric Association, 2013, p. 271). The American Psychiatric Association described the characteristics of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, or PTSD, as “the development of characteristic symptoms following exposure to one or more traumatic events” (American Psychiatric Association, 2013, p. 271). The American Psychological Association (2013) outlines the criterion for diagnosis outlined in eight diagnostic criterion sublevels (American Psychiatric Association, 2013, pp. 271-272). Criterion A is measured by “exposure to actual or threatened” serious trauma or injury based upon one or more factors (American Psychiatric Association, 2013, p. …show more content…

272). Criterion D is identified by two or more of the following: inability to recall significant details of the traumatic event(s), persistent and inflated negative beliefs or presumptions about self, others, or the world (p. 272), constant “distorted” beliefs about the cause or affects of the traumatic events that enable an individual to blame himself/herself or others (p. 272), typical emotional state is negative, lack of interest or participation in significant activities, perpetual difficulty experiencing positive emotions, and feelings of “detachment” from self or others (American Psychiatric Association, 2013, p. 272). Antwone’s signs and behaviors are consistent with four of the seven criteria. Antwone refers to himself as a person with problems who is “broken” inside (Black, Washington, 2002). Antwone also reports that he fights because “that’s the only way people will get it” (Black, Washington, 2002). Antwone is often found reading, drawing, or listening to music alone, yet expresses his desire for his closeness to his therapist (Black, Washington, …show more content…

273), if individual’s disturbances cause clinically significant impairment social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning (Criterion G, p. 273), and if the disturbance(s) are not better explained by substance abuse or another medical condition (Criterion H, p. 273) (American Psychiatric Association, 2013, p. 273). Antwone meet’s the criteria for all three, as he recognizes he has always exhibited these behaviors since he left the Tate’s (Black, Washington, 2002). Antwone’s behavior has sent him to the brig several times, caused him to be demoted several times, and hinders his ability to get close with others (Black, Washington, 2002). Lastly, Antwone later reports to his birth mother that he has never done any drugs or alcohol in his lifetime (Black, Washington, 2002). Antwone’s psychological and environmental stressors caused him to develop PTSD. This character is an example of how and individual’s resilience and hardness can act as a protective factor in later growth (Bonanno, 2004, p.

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