Tactical Architecture: an Architectural Understanding of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder in Veterans

In a society that is becoming increasingly transparent with regards to mental health and treatment, and living in a time of significant and extended military conflict, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder is being more actively addressed. However, in this thesis I am specifically investigating the means by which architecture may be integrated into the therapeutic treatment of those who struggle with the condition. Through the understanding of the psychological disorder, phenomenology, the sense of self, memory, and the properties of therapeutic spaces it is possible to make beneficial design and programmatic decisions that can aid in the healing process which may be undertaken in a variety of approaches.