Assessment, early intervention and evidence-based treatments for posttraumatic stress disorder in children following motor vehicle accidents

Motor vehicles accidents (MVA) are one of the leading causes of injuries for children. The consequences of a MVA include physical injuries, such as broken bones or a traumatic brain injury as well as emotional injury, such as posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Between 10% and 35% of children ages 2-18 years meet criteria for PTSD following a MVA, with adolescents being at higher risk for the development of PTSD. This review will focus on assessment, early intervention, and treatment of PTSD following a MVA in children and adolescents.