When Children Suffer From PTSD

By Dr. Brian McDonough, Medical Editor

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Post traumatic stress disorder or PTSD can be disabling and, by definition, is the result of trauma. Because the impact can last years we are consistently studying it.

When we think of PTSD we think of those in war or a victim of crime. But what about people who suffer injury from auto accidents or other trauma at home and what about children?

10-14% of children who experience a road accident or burn injury have PTSD 6 months later.

New research suggests we may be able to detect which ones will experience PTSD by asking the parents about their behavior after the event. The use of questionnaires with questions aimed at detecting risk for ptsd is helpful and can get many the early treatment they need.