Child and Adolescent Exposure to Trauma: Comparative Effectiveness of Interventions Addressing Trauma Other Than Maltreatment or Family Violence Executive Summary

Approximately two-thirds of children and adolescents will experience at least one traumatic event, creating a critical need to identify effective child trauma interventions. While most children exposed to trauma do not experience long-term negative sequelae in terms of psychological and social functioning, some go on to develop traumatic stress syndromes, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).1-3 Studies have indicated that childhood traumatic stress syndromes are associated with a high degree of impairment that can carry into adolescence and adulthood. For example, childhood PTSD increases the risk for developing comorbid mental disorders, such as depression, substance abuse, and conduct disorder.4 Suicidality is a particular concern for children with PTSD.4,5 Decreased social, home, school (lower academic achievement6), and relational functioning have also been observed in children and adolescents with PTSD. Although several guidelines on the treatment of PTSD during childhood and adolescence exist, the recommendations have not been largely based on evidence resulting from Comparative Effectiveness Reviews. Furthermore, the guidelines offer inconsistent recommendations for interventions. Effective Health Care Program