Psychopathology after disasters: General characteristics and critical concerns This article presents a comprehensive review of psychopathology after disasters. The central concept of the article is posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Explained are relevant criteria of this disorder, prevalence findings, and related mental disorders, such as depression. The course of PTSD as well as biological dimensions are described. Furthermore, the author examines various critical issues with regard to the concept of PTSD, such as the definition of the traumatic stressor, the role of criterion F (functional impairment), the matter of simulation, and the problem of co-morbidity. Finally, pros and contras of the concept are reviewed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]