ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the latter, coping mechanisms, through two case examples of people affected by the 9/11 disaster and possible interventions for return to a healthy, productive life. Why some people experience Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) while others do not remains to be seen, but a recent study suggests that inheriting a shorter version of a single gene appears to predispose people to fear. Using magnetic resonance imaging, Dr. Ahmad R. Hariri and Dr. Daniel R. Weinberger, at the National Institute of Mental Health, established a direct link between a genetic variation and the behavior of a region of the brain called the amygdala, which processes fear. It appears that genetics, when combined with other factors including environment, support system, feelings of safety, a coexisting psychiatric illness, long-term physical illness, and ability to cope with adverse situations, influence the development of PTSD. Responses to the trauma of 9/11 are unique in many ways, ranging from acute stress to PTSD.
