What psychological condition can result from prolonged exposure to extreme stressors?

Prolonged exposure to extreme stressors can lead to Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), which is characterized by a range of symptoms including intrusive memories, severe anxiety, and emotional distress following a traumatic event. This condition often develops after an individual experiences or witnesses an event that threatens their life or safety, such as combat, natural disasters, or serious accidents.

The development of PTSD is directly linked to the intensity and duration of the stressor experienced. Individuals with PTSD may have difficulty processing the trauma, leading to persistent emotional and psychological challenges. The diagnosis of PTSD is specific to experiences involving severe trauma, setting it apart from other anxiety disorders that may not necessarily relate to a single traumatic event.

In contrast, Generalized Anxiety Disorder is characterized by persistent and excessive worry about various aspects of life, which may not stem from a specific traumatic incident. Obsessive-compulsive disorder involves unwanted repetitive thoughts and behaviors that are typically not related to a specific traumatic event or prolonged stress. Social Anxiety Disorder is defined by intense fear of social situations, which is different from the re-experiencing and hyperarousal symptoms associated with PTSD. Therefore, the relationship of PTSD with extreme stressors uniquely positions it as the correct answer in this context.