The social neuroendocrinology of trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder

The experience of trauma and the subsequent development of disorders such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are unique among psychiatric disorders in that they are specifically social phenomena. By their very nature, these disorders are etiologically linked to a social experience; trauma and the development of disorder and progress towards recovery are likewise significantly affected by the social milieu in the aftermath of trauma. This chapter reviews the literature on the neuroendocrinology of trauma and PTSD with an emphasis on the relevance of social context for risk, resilience, disorder, and recovery. The influence of trauma-related neuroendocrinology on social behavior, such as sexual function and violence, is also reviewed.