Those MOST likely to experience substantial stress symptoms after the terrorist attacks in the United States on September 11, 2001, were those who lived:

• A. Near New York City
• B. Far away from New York City
• C. Near Washington, DC
• D. On the West Coast of the United States

Answer: (A)

Direct exposure to a traumatic event greatly raises the risk of substantial stress symptoms. People living near the attack sites faced immediate danger, witnessed mass trauma, suffered injuries or losses, and dealt with ongoing environmental hazards and disruption. That firsthand, pervasive exposure leads to higher rates of acute stress reactions and PTSD than those who mainly hear about it through news or experience it from a greater distance. While others far away felt fear and distress, the strongest reactions occur in those closest to the disaster, particularly around New York City.