How Common is Post Traumatic Stress Disorder in Children?

Discussion “Exposure to traumatic stress events including physical abuse, sexual abuse, violence, witnessing violence in the home or community, severe family dysfunction/psychopathology, natural disasters, severe accidents and/or their own or their caregivers’ life-threatening illness are not uncommon in children and adolescents.” It is estimated that up to 60% of teens age 16-18 have experienced at least 1 traumatic event. Some children, teens and adults may experience transient psychological problems or distress which may cause physical complaints including pain, behavioral changes such as irritation or regression, sleep problems, etc.. Some children, teens and adults go on to experience more difficulties immediately after the event or later on. Risk factors for having significant problems include multiple traumatic exposures, multiple trauma types (physical, emotional, sexual, etc.), trauma intensity, personal mental health problems, high risk social situations including poverty, isolation, delinquent peer affiliation, multiple out-of-home placements and family members with physical or mental illness including substance abuse. Resiliency helps to moderate the effects including having problem-solving skills, self control, positive interpersonal relationships, safe home and school environments, religious faith, success with school and peers, socioeconomic advantage, and being older when trauma occurred. To review a case about resiliency to the effects of...
Source: PediatricEducation.org - Category: Pediatrics Authors: Tags: Uncategorized Source Type: news