THE EFFECTS OF PSYCHOLOGICAL TRAUMA ON CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS

In this review the authors examine the cognitive, affective, behaviora l, and somatic-physiological effects documented in the literature as s equelae of overwhelming life events in children and adolescents. Findi ngs from the literature are compared with the current formulations of Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in the Diagnostic and Statistica l Manual of Mental Disorders, third edition, revised (DSM-III-R, Ameri can Psychiatric Association, 1987) as this diagnostic category applies to children. Responses likely to be observed in children and adolesce nts who have been exposed to traumatic events are discussed Suggestion s for future research and counseling practice are presented.