Assessment of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder in Older Adults: A Critical Review

Author(s)

Bunny Falk, Nova Southeastern University
Michel Hersen, Nova Southeastern University
Vincent B. Van Hasselt, Nova Southeastern UniversityFollow

Document Type

Article

Publication Title

Clinical Psychology Review

ISSN

0272-7358

Publication Date

1994

Abstract

Three trauma-related areas (combat, natural and man-made disasters, and the Holocaust) are reviewed to ascertain the extent to which assessment of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder has been carried out with an older adult population. Investigations that include subjects who are at least 50 years of age were considered for selection in each area. Although no single assessment strategy emerged as a reliable evaluative tool, many studies in the three areas found that older adults meet diagnostic criteria for PTSD-delayed onset as long as 45 years after experiencing such trauma. Lack of consistency in the findings is discussed in terms of methodological problems, differing theoretical perspectives, and revisions in the criteria for diagnosis from DSM-III to DSM-III-R. Recommendations for future research are made with proposed DSM-IV changes in criteria and subtype considered.

DOI

10.1016/0272-7358(94)90034-5

Volume

14

Issue

5

First Page

383

Last Page

415

NSUWorks Citation

Falk, B., Hersen, M., Van Hasselt, V. B. (1994). Assessment of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder in Older Adults: A Critical Review. Clinical Psychology Review, 14(5), 383-415.
Available at: https://nsuworks.nova.edu/cps_facarticles/265