What term is used to describe psychological trauma caused by the stress of war?

• A. Shell shock
• B. War fatigue
• C. Combat stress
• D. Post-traumatic stress

Answer: (A)

The term "shell shock" was historically used to describe the psychological trauma experienced by soldiers during and after World War I, particularly as a result of the intense bombardment and the overall stress of trench warfare. It reflected the understanding at the time that such psychological symptoms were often related to the physical impacts of artillery shelling, although it later became clear that these symptoms encompassed broader experiences of trauma related to the horrors of war.

Shell shock is an important term because it illustrates one of the earliest recognitions of psychological casualties in warfare, leading to a better understanding of mental health issues among veterans. This acknowledgment paved the way for the more comprehensive approaches to combat-related psychological conditions that are prevalent today, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Other terms like "war fatigue" and "combat stress" are modern interpretations that arose later, while "post-traumatic stress" is a broader contemporary diagnosis that encompasses various forms of trauma, including those sustained outside of combat. Thus, "shell shock" remains significant as it marks the beginning of the conversation around war-induced psychological trauma.