Understanding PTSD in Portuguese Youth: Predictors and Risk Factors in a Multi-Clinic, Treatment-Engaged Sample

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in childhood and adolescence is common. Studies have focused on a small group of predictors related to the traumatic event and still focus on the adult population.

To explore the prevalence of PTSD and to identify factors that potentially increase the risk for the development of PTSD in a clinical sample of children and adolescents. Eligibility criteria included: experienced at least one traumatic event; age between 7 and 18 years; follow-up period of at least 1 month. Data collection was achieved by using: clinical records to obtain the patients' clinical data; the Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale and the Checklist of Potentially Traumatic Events in Children and Adolescents.

A total of 101 participants were included. The prevalence of PTSD was 35.6%. For pre-traumatic factors, significant association was found for age (p = 0.033), suggesting increased likelihood of PTSD for older participants. Regarding the type of event, PTSD was significantly associated with interpersonal events (p = 0.001). Participants who were a single intervenient (involved person) had increased odds for PTSD (p = 0.036). It was found that the association with PTSD, in a decreasing manner, occurred with dissociative symptoms, followed by symptoms of Group C (avoidance), Group B (intrusive thoughts), Group E (activation and reactivity) and Group D (cognitions and mood). Dissociative symptoms were significantly associated with PTSD (p = 0.001).

The study provides evidence that several factors can predict the development of PTSD in childhood and adolescence. Awareness about these factors, healthcare workers' specific training, and prevention and intervention strategies are the foundation to promote child well-being throughout life.