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Complex posttraumatic stress disorder in adolescence: A two-year follow-up study
Evaldas Kazlauskas1, Agniete Kairyte1, Paulina Zelviene1
1Center for Psychotraumatology, Institute of Psychology, Vilnius University, Vilnius, Lithuania.
Clinical Child Psychology and Psychiatry
|July 4, 2023
Summary
Complex posttraumatic stress disorder (CPTSD) affects one-third of adolescents long-term, linked to trauma, life stressors, and social difficulties. Recovery is possible for over half, highlighting the need for support.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Child and Adolescent Mental Health
- Trauma Studies
Background:
- Complex posttraumatic stress disorder (CPTSD) is a new diagnosis in ICD-11.
- Understanding CPTSD in children and adolescents is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify factors associated with chronic CPTSD versus recovery in adolescents over two years.
- To analyze the trajectory of CPTSD symptoms in a youth population.
Main Methods:
- 66 adolescents (mean age 14.5, 73% female) with CPTSD at baseline were assessed.
- The International Trauma Questionnaire - Child and Adolescent Version (ITQ-CA) was used for CPTSD assessment.
- A 2-year follow-up study design was employed.
Main Results:
- 36% of adolescents had chronic CPTSD over 2 years; 10% had PTSD, and 54% recovered.
- Higher risk for chronic CPTSD linked to more trauma, life stressors, low social support, bullying, and loneliness.
- Exposure to multiple adverse events significantly predicted prolonged CPTSD symptoms.
Conclusions:
- Approximately one-third of traumatized youth experience prolonged CPTSD symptoms.
- Negative life experiences and social difficulties are associated with chronic CPTSD trajectories.
- Early identification and intervention for CPTSD in adolescents are vital.
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