Identifying Symptoms of PTSD

In a clinical setting, a 45-year-old man named Robert presents with symptoms that include recurrent and intrusive thoughts about his past traumatic experiences as a soldier. He reports frequent nightmares and is easily startled by loud noises. He tends to avoid situations that remind him of his military service and feels numb and detached from his emotions. Robert's symptoms have significantly affected his daily life, leading to difficulties in personal relationships and maintaining employment.

Given this presentation, Robert's symptoms align closely with a specific category of psychological disorder. Understanding the characteristics and diagnostic criteria of this disorder is crucial for effective treatment planning.