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Post-traumatic stress disorder in children and adolescents following road traffic accidents

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  03 January 2018

K. A. H. Mirza ,
B. R. Bhadrinath ,
Ian M. Goodyer  and
Carol Gilmour
K. A. H. Mirza
Affiliation:
Developmental Psychiatry Section, University of Cambridge, UK
B. R. Bhadrinath*
Affiliation:
Bethel Child and Family Centre, Norwich, UK
Ian M. Goodyer
Affiliation:
Developmental Psychiatry Section, University of Cambridge, UK
Carol Gilmour
Affiliation:
Bethel Child and Family Centre, Norwich, UK
*
Dr B. R. Bhadrinath, Consultant Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, Bethel Child and Family Centre, Hotblack Road, Norwich, Norfolk NR2 4HN
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Abstract

Background

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can be a persistent and disabling psychiatric disorder. There is little systematic research into the psychiatric consequences of road traffic accidents (RTAs) in children and adolescents.

Method

A consecutive sample of 8–16-year-olds attending an accident and emergency department following RTAs were screened for PTSD. Potential cases and their parent(s) were interviewed with semi-structured research instruments about six weeks and six months after the accident.

Results

Fifty-three (45%) of the 119 subjects fell above PTSD cut-off on the Frederick's Reaction Index. Thirty-three (75%) of the 44 cases met DSM–IV criteria for PTSD. In half of these other psychiatric disorders were present, including major depressive disorder and anxiety disorders. Being female, involvement in car accidents and pre-existing depression and anxiety were associated with developing PTSD. Seventeen per cent of the sample continued to be symptomatic six months after the accident.

Conclusions

PTSD is a common consequence of RTAs. Liaison with accident and emergency departments would enhance the early detection and follow-up of children at risk of developing PTSD.

Information

Type
Preliminary Report
Information
The British Journal of Psychiatry , Volume 172 , Issue 5 , May 1998 , pp. 443 - 447
Copyright
Copyright © 1998 The Royal College of Psychiatrists 

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