The treatment of post traumatic stress disorder in children and adolescents

Abstract

Children and adolescents can develop traumatic stress reactions following exposure to particularly threatening events. These reactions approximate to adult-like Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, although there appear to be important differences in presentation at younger ages. This paper summarizes what is currently known of the risk and protective factors associated with the development of PTSD. Suggestions are made for comprehensive assessment of the presenting problems. Early intervention may prevent later difficulties, but for large numbers of children group and individual treatment will be necessary. At present, cognitive-behavioural techniques appear to be the methods of choice.