Terrorism and the American Psyche
The attacks of September 11, 2001 not only affected those who were killed and injured, but also millions of ordinary Americans. The impact of this act of terrorism, along with a constant stream of attacks and threats of attacks have substantially altered the American psyche. Immediately after the attacks, Americans across the nation began to suffer from symptoms of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. In addition to this, Americans have suffered through a number of psychological effects of terrorism including fear, anger, and vulnerability. All in all, the effect of terrorism on American society has been one of altering the way Americans feel about their safety and their place in the world. In a sense, Americans no longer viewed their world as predictable, orderly, and controllable.
Well known psychologist, William E. Schlenger, stated that the attacks of 9/11 "represent an unprecedented exposure to trauma" within the United States. ("The American Psyche: Post 9/11") Terrorist attacks are unpredictable and most often extremely violent; causing an erosion of a sense of security that most people have. This is much different from a natural disaster which also strikes without warning and usually causes a great amount of damage. When violence is deliberately inflicted upon people, the psychological effects are of a greater degree and longer lasting than natural events. (Hamblen and Slone) And this not only includes those who are directly affected by the acts of terrorism,...
In the case of 9/11, for instance, the entire nation witnessed the tragic events of that day, live on television, and therefore the entire nation was traumatized. And the continued threats and attacks which have periodically gripped the nation have had the effect of a continual exposure to the trauma associated with terrorism.
The main affect of a terrorist attack, particularly in the period of time immediately following an attack, is a dramatic rise in the rates of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Research has indicated that "Rates of PTSD in the general population attributed to single attacks may be as high as 11-13% in the first 6 weeks… ." (Whalley and Brewin) In fact, in the period following the attacks of 9/11, nearly 11% of the population of the New York area was estimated to be suffering from the affects of PTSD. This included such symptoms such as fear, anxiety, helplessness, anger, nightmares, flashbacks, and guilt. And for some these affects can be long lasting. According to research, at least 20% of those suffering from PTSD will continue to demonstrate symptoms two years after the traumatic event. But it is not only those who live in the area attacked that feel these affects, research has indicated that millions of Americans across the nation have been affected as well.
While the incidents of PTSD increase after a terrorist…
