Post-traumatic stress disorder in a child following an automobile accident.
A 3-year-old girl was diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) following a minor automobile accident. The child presented with nightmares, violent play, and trauma-specific fears. The common symptoms of PTSD in childhood are reviewed, and the importance of careful history-taking and prompt referral to a mental health professional are discussed.
Jones
R W
RW
Department of Family Medicine, University of Nevada School of Medicine, Reno.
Peterson
L W
LW
D000063:Accidents, Traffic / Q000523:psychology*; D002675:Child, Preschool; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D013313:Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic / Q000209:etiology* / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy