Posttraumatic Stress Disorder in Children and Adolescents

Abstract

Traumatic events can affect children and adolescents in very unique and sometimes complex ways. Pediatricians in primary care settings are uniquely positioned to identify the influence traumatic experiences have upon their patients’ general functioning and potential development of psychopathology. Thus, it is of vital importance for pediatricians to be able to recognize these influences and coordinate appropriate care for children and adolescents who are either presenting emerging symptoms or experiencing more definitive posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). To support these efforts, this article provides a review of key clinical features of PTSD and related conditions that are commonly presented in primary care, as well as best practices for screening, treatment, and coordination of care. By improving pediatricians’ knowledge and awareness of common childhood reactions to adverse and traumatic experiences, the goal of this review is to promote a broader scope of trauma-informed practice considerations that will help clinicians prevent symptom progression and the development of PTSD for their child and adolescent patients.