SELF-PERCEIVED TRAUMATIC STRESS IN COLLEGE - A SURVEY

Most studies of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder have involved war vetera ns and victims of natural disasters and violent crime. To evaluate the incidence at college, 179 college students' responses were examined. Analysis indicated that there was a high frequency of self-perceived t raumatic stress in this sample; 42% reported traumatic events, whereas only 6% would meet strict diagnostic criteria. Automobile accidents, deaths, and harassment were events perceived as traumatic. Most studen ts turned to themselves or friends for treatment. Apparently traumatic events are more prevalent on campus than previously thought and (with the exception of rape) are rarely covered in prevention programs. Col lege health authorities should be aware of the high incidence of perce ived trauma, inform college students of potential stressors, and provi de appropriate treatment.