Which of the following is not a symptom of PTSD?

The option regarding feeling intense pleasure is not a symptom of PTSD. Individuals with PTSD typically experience a range of distressing symptoms that center around their trauma. Re-experiencing the traumatic event involves intrusive memories, flashbacks, or nightmares, which are hallmark features of the disorder. Avoidance of reminders of the trauma manifests as a desire to steer clear of places, people, activities, or reminders that trigger memories of the event, highlighting the struggle to cope with the distressing memories.

Increased anxiety and arousal is another common symptom, encompassing hyper-vigilance, exaggerated startle response, and problems with sleep. This heightened state of arousal is a defense mechanism that can persist long after the trauma has occurred.

In contrast, feeling intense pleasure does not align with the symptomatology of PTSD, as individuals often experience a diminished sense of pleasure in activities they once enjoyed (anhedonia). Thus, the feelings of intense pleasure are not characteristic of PTSD and indicate a departure from the emotional and psychological challenges faced by those with the disorder.