Ptsd Case Analysis of Sandor Clegane "The Hound" from Game of Thrones

Joe Hilderbrand

November 20, 2014

Case Analysis

Abnormal Psych

Introduction:

There is a plethora of emotional disorders that can develop after a traumatic event or after multiple traumatic events. Post Traumatic Stress Disorder is an example of an emotional disorder that can develop post-trauma. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder is often a diagnosis in individuals who are witnesses of, or play a given role in a traumatic event such as sexual assault, freak accidents, or the death of a loved one close to said individual. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder is not only widely discussed in the real world, but it is also a topic of conversation in fictional literature. The story of Sandor Clegane, otherwise known as The Hound in the book series A Song of Fire and Ice, is a prime example of a fictional character meeting the criteria to be diagnosed with PTSD. By using the psychoanalytic definition of the biopsychosocial model to describe PTSD, it is wise to assume an individual can be predisposed to developing PTSD based off of the events occurring during childhood. As a young child, Sandor Clegane became predisposed to developing PTSD by not only surviving a malicious attack from his own brother, but by witnessing the death of his father and younger sister. PTSD can be exceedingly difficult to handle, but it can be treated and cured. Drugs can be administered to help treat PTSD temporarily, but cognitive behavioral therapy and treatments provide the best possible and most successful long term treatment for individuals diagnosed with PTSD.

Case History:

Westeros, the mythical world and setting of the novel series (A Song of Fire and Ice) turned movie series (Game of Thrones), can be hell on Earth for anyone, at any given time. With the looming threats of rival kingdoms, deceitful family members, fire-breathing dragons, cannibal hill tribes, giants, and of course, the frozen zombies, Westeros is a fictional battlefield for all to compete in. Although the...