Re: Assessment of PTSD Symptoms in Young Children

[Kym Kilpatrick <kkilpatr@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

>I've used the Post-traumatic Stress Reaction Index by Frederickson and
>promoted  by Kath Nader and Robert Pynoos (UCLA) with children in the 6 to
>12 year age range.  I found it to be very useful and relatively easy to
>administer as an interview.  It is however based on DSM-IIIR criteria so
>also includes questions on guilt/self-blame
Regards,

Kym Kilpatrick




We are seeking to assess the  PTSD symptoms of children ages 4 to 10 who
>have experienced physical maltreatment and/or neglect.  This assessment is
>part of a longitudinal research project investigating developmental
>outcomes in this population.  In our previous research involving children
>ages 8 and older who have experienced sexual abuse we have used self-report
>measures.  However, for this population the measures we have used are not
>appropriate.  I am seeking advice on how best to assess PTSD symptoms in
>young children in the context of a research assessment (the children are
>identified via CPS and may not be receiving therapeutic services).  Any
>suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
>Lynn S. Taska, Ph.D.
>Assistant Professor
>Institute for the Study of Child Development
>UMDNJ Robert Wood Johnson Medical School
>97 Paterson St.
>New Brunswick, NJ  08903
>phone  (732) 235-7746
>fax  (732) 235-6189


Regards,

Kym.

Kym Kilpatrick                     e-mail: kkilpatr@metz.une.edu.au
Psychology Department,             phone: + 61 67 73-2568
University of New England,         fax:   + 61 67 73-3820
Armidale NSW 2351, Australia