Females in Combat
Shortchanging Vets
PTSD in Children
Children often are exposed to trauma as a result of the following kinds of events:
Many studies have shown that there is a connection between children's exposure to traumatic events and psychological problems. These include not only full-scale PTSD, but also problems with:
 | peer relationships |
| relationships within the family |
| self-esteem |
| school activities and performance |
| sexual behavior (in cases of sexual abuse) |
| emotional development |
| depression and anger |
| physical health |
| substance abuse |
| fears |
| anger |
| guilt |
| feeling ashamed |
PTSD symptoms in children may last for a long time, and may include:
| disturbing memories or flashbacks |
| repeated nightmares and dreams of death |
| belief in omens and prediction of disastrous future events |
| pessimism about the future and expectation of early death |
| avoiding reminders of traumatic experiences |
| fear of re-experiencing traumatic anxiety |
| behavioral re-enactment (expressed as repetitive play) |
| emotional numbness (seeming to have no feelings, except perhaps anger) |
| diminished interest in significant activities |
| physical symptoms, such as stomachaches and headaches |
| feeling constantly on guard, or nervous and jumpy |
| More detailed information on symptoms can be found here |
In addition, surviving or witnessing traumatic events may intensify symptoms of other psychiatric disorders, such as:
| attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder |
| dissociative disorders |
| eating disorders |
| major depression |
| oppositional defiant disorder |
| panic disorder |
| phobias |
| separation anxiety disorder |
Treatment of PTSD in children generally involves "talking therapies" (such as cognitive behavioral therapy, family therapy, or brief psychotherapy), and may include the prescription of medication by a psychiatrist. The goals are:
| helping the child to remember the traumatic events safely |
| addressing the child's family life, peer relationships, and school performance |
| dealing with grief, guilt, anger, depression, anxiety, and behavioral disturbances |
It is best to seek treatment from a professional with expertise in this area. Many therapists with this expertise are members of the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies, whose membership directory contains a geographical listing indicating those who treat children and adolescents.
The information on this Web site is presented for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for informed medical advice or training. Do not use this information to diagnose or treat a mental health problem without consulting a qualified health or mental health care provider. All information contained on these pages is in the public domain unless explicit notice is given to the contrary, and may be copied and
distributed without restriction. This page was last updated on 14 May 1998. For more information telephone us at (802) 296-5132 or send email to ptsd@dartmouth.edu
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