Traumatic stress in childhood

Children who have been exposed to traumatic events may exhibit a variety of psychological sequelae, including anxiety, depression, behavioural problems and symptoms of traumatic stress disorders. In recent years, advances in the understanding of the nature, development and maintenance of traumatic stress reactions have led to significant developments in the assessment and treatment of posttraumatic stress disorders in children. At the same time, epidemiological studies examining the effects of traumatic events on children and adolescents have raised questions about the validity of current diagnostic criteria for acute stress disorder (ASD) and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

This workshop provides a comprehensive overview of recent research in this area, with a focus on the implications of this work for psychological practice. Recent advances in the assessment of posttraumatic symptomatology in children are examined, including the development of structured interviews and self-report inventories for both children and their parents. Current practice in the treatment of children with traumatic stress reactions is discussed, with a focus on the utilisation of cognitive-behavioural therapy involving exposure-based techniques. The published controlled treatment outcome studies are reviewed and evaluated. Interventions in the immediate post-trauma period designed to prevent the development of serious posttraumatic reactions are also discussed.

Learning objectives

Details to come.

Venues & dates

TBA

Registration

Please email info@humphreyshannan.com.au or call 02 4739 9113 for information on registration.