Posttraumatic stress disorder

Posttraumatic stress disorder in children and adolescents can arise from war, terrorist attacks, major disasters, child abuse, life-threatening illness, painful treatments, and many other causes. The need to understand the nature and severity of the risk factors involved, as well as the mechanisms of various symptom formations, and the need to further develop and test appropriate treatments and prevention measures are now high priorities.

Other important issues include the need to mobilize collaborative approaches among countries. In the United States, collaboration at federal, state and community levels (including schools) is needed. One might say that given the present global conflicts, the need to understand and provide appropriate service is vital.

Nathaniel Laor and Leo Wolmer, the Guest Editors for this issue of the Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Clinics of North America, have thoughtfully assembled a team of authors who share their knowledge, skills, and research findings in this area. I am grateful to each author for the special contributions they have made for this important and timely issue.