Trauma and Ptsd Psychology: Understanding the Impact of Traumatic Events Trauma and PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) Psychology is a specialized field of psychology that focuses on understanding the impact of trauma and helping individuals cope with the resulting psychological effects. Trauma can be defined as a deeply distressing or disturbing experience, often involving physical or emotional harm, which can have long-lasting effects on an individual’s mental well-being. PTSD, on the other hand, is a specific type of trauma that involves a prolonged emotional response to a traumatic event.