Final answer:
The 3rd stage of an emotional response following a traumatic event is the stage of exhaustion, where the body's coping mechanisms are overwhelmed, leading to increased psychological and physiological vulnerability.
Step-by-step explanation:
The 3rd stage of an emotional response after a traumatic event, as identified in the General Adaptation Syndrome by Hans Selye, is the stage of exhaustion. Post-traumatic stress is a significant concern in this phase, as chronic stress overwhelms the individual's capacity to cope effectively. In contrast to the stage of resistance, where the body adjusts to the stress, in the stage of exhaustion, the body's resources are depleted, leading to increased vulnerability to illness and negative psychological effects such as burnout, depression, or anxiety.
An example of how this stage can manifest is visible in individuals who experience prolonged periods of distress without resolution, such as continued anxiety and other negative emotional states following a significant trauma, like the aftermath of the September 11 attacks mentioned in the research by DiGrande et al. (2008). It's essential during this stage to seek professional help to address the emotional and psychological toll of the trauma.