The current criteria for post-traumatic stress disorder have changed since the DSM-IV. In the DSM-V, the diagnostic criteria draw a clearer line when it comes to detailing what constitutes a traumatic event. The DSM-V pays more attention to the behavioral symptoms that accompany PTSD and offers four distinct diagnostic groups instead of three. They are described as reliving, avoidance, negative cognitions and mood, and arousal. Re-experiencing corresponds to spontaneous memories of the traumatic event, recurring dreams related to it, flashbacks or any other intense psychological distress. Avoidance refers to distressing memories, thoughts, feelings, or external reminders of the event. Negative cognitions and moods represent endless feelings ranging from a continuous, distorted sense of blame toward oneself or others, a disconnection from others, or a diminished interest in activities, to a inability to remember key aspects of the traumatic event. Finally, arousal is marked by aggressive, reckless or self-destructive behavior, sleep disturbances or hypervigilance. The DSM-V also emphasizes the “flight” aspect associated with PTSD, as well as the “fight” response often observed. Post-traumatic stress disorder goes back a long way in history. The risk of exposure to trauma has been part of the human status since we evolved as a species. It was first seen in Shakespeare's play Henry IV, written around 1597, which represents an unusually accurate depiction of PTSD symptoms. In 1980, the American Psychiatric Association added PTSD to the third edition of its Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, known as DSM-III. Although controversial when first introduced, the diagnosis of PTSD filled an important gap in psychiatric theory and practice... middle of article ... disorders have negative effects. Works Cited Friedman, M. (nd). PTSD: National Center for PTSD. History and Overview of PTSD -. Accessed May 26, 2014, from http://www.ptsd.va.gov/professional/PTSD-overview/ptsd-overview.aspPTSD: National Center for PTSD. (nd). PTSD Treatment -. Retrieved May 27, 2014 from http://www.ptsd.va.gov/public/treatment/therapy-med/treatment-ptsd.asp Rosen, G. (2004). Post-traumatic stress disorder: issues and controversies. Chichester, West Sussex, England: J. Wiley. Tull, M. (nd). How Does PTSD Affect Daily Life?. About.com Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Retrieved May 26, 2014 from http://ptsd.about.com/od/ratedconditions/a/effectofptsd.htmTull, M. (nd). PTSD rates by gender, age, and marital status. About.com Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Accessed May 29, 2014 from http://ptsd.about.com/od/prevalence/a/prevalence.htm