Therapeutic Approaches to Posttraumatic Stress Disorder in Infants and Toddlers.

In this paper, general guidelines and specific techniques that the authors have found helpful in the treatment of posttraumatic stress reactions during the infancy and toddler period are described. [n treatment planning it is important to recognize that traumatic events affect infants and their families in a number of ways. Moreover, the rapid developmental changes occurring in the first 3 years strongly influence how a trauma is experienced. Taking these factors into account, the authors identify a number of important therapeutic principles, derived from work with older children and adults, that can be applied to the treatment of infants and toddlers. Specific therapeutic techniques are described in relation to the child's age and developmental level. Suggestions for working with parents are provided, as well as a brief discussion of the role of medication. The paper concludes with a summary of a clinical session with a traumatized toddler, illustrating the psychotherapeutic approaches that have been discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]