Trauma-related impairment in children—A survey in Sri Lankan provinces affected by armed conflict

Abstract

Performance and functioning in children are related to the total load of traumatic events experienced. An important component of psychosocial programs in post-conflict areas should include increasing community-based awareness of the consequences of traumatic stress, both as a preventative measure and as a way of decreasing stigmatization of affected individuals.

Community-Implemented Trauma Therapy for Former Child Soldiers in Northern Uganda

“…4 Most significantly, the excessive exposure to violence in the rebel army, often involving torture, forced participation in atrocities, sexual violence, and the loss of loved ones, leaves affected children and young adults vulnerable to behavioral problems as well as psychological and physical impairment. [5][6][7][8][9][10] Researchers reporting on the rehabilitation and reintegration of former child soldiers recommend that efficient treatment programs targeting posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and other psychological problems must be a component of rehabilitation and reintegration efforts. [11][12][13][14][15][16][17][18] However, to date there is no available treatment with proven efficacy for the treatment of PTSD or depression in former child soldiers.…”

Krieg im Zuhause – ein Überblick zum Zusammenhang zwischen Kriegstraumatisierung und familiärer Gewalt

“…Die Angaben verschiedener Studien reichen von einer PTBS-Prävalenz bei Kindern und Jugendlichen von 20% [Saigh, 1991] bis 44% auch noch Jahre nach dem traumatischen Kriegsgeschehen [Schaal und Elbert, 2006]. Neuere epidemiologische Studien unserer Arbeitsgruppe mit Kindern an den aktuellen Kriegsschauplätzen in Afghanistan und Sri Lanka zeigen, dass bis zu ein Viertel der Kinder neben einer PTBS auch komorbide affektive und somatische Probleme aufwies [Catani et al, 2008b[Catani et al, , 2009bElbert et al, 2009].…”

Rating Scales validated for Sri Lankan populations

“…It includes 19 items to assess the 17 symptoms of PTSD as well as 2 associated symptoms (guilt and fear of event's recurring). This has been translated into Sinhala (76). The Tamil language translation has also been validated (77,78).…”