Abstract

OBJECTIVE:

To determine current rates of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depressive disorder, and separation anxiety disorder (SAD) among children 1 1/2 years after the 1988 earthquake in Armenia; to determine current rates of comorbid PTSD and depressive disorder; and to assess the contribution of exposure, gender, loss of family members, and loss of residence.

METHOD:

Abstract

The circumstances surrounding a mass killing in New Zealand are described in conjunction with a review of a number of other similar multiple victim homicides. Due to the rare and extreme nature of such events, it is argued that they should be managed as human disasters by the professionals involved and that stress debriefing should be available for all potential primary, secondary and tertiary victims.

Abstract

Abstract

OBJECTIVE:

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) has been best studied among combat veterans. Less is known about PTSD among civilian populations exposed to traumatic events. A recent mass murder spree by a gunman in a cafeteria in Killeen, Tex., has provided a unique opportunity to study acute-phase civilian responses to a combat type of experience.

METHOD:

Approximately 1 month after the disaster, 136 survivors were interviewed with the Diagnostic Interview Schedule/Disaster Supplement.

RESULTS: