CLINICAL MANIFESTATIONS OF POST-TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER SYMPTOMS IN CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS UNDER CONDITIONS OF ARMED CONFLICT

Abstract

This article is devoted to the theoretical substantiation and examination of the clinical manifestations of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms in children and adolescents under the conditions of Russian military aggression in Ukraine. The paper provides a theoretical analysis of scientific literature addressing the issue of psychological trauma. Traumatic events that may lead to the development of PTSD are characterized. It is noted that, in addition to the traumatic event itself, other factors also play a significant role – either facilitating the onset of PTSD or contributing to resilience and coping with the consequences of trauma. The article analyzes the factors that contribute to the emergence of PTSD in children and adolescents. It is revealed that younger children exhibit specific features in the manifestation of PTSD symptoms. The study confirms that PTSD in children and adolescents follows the same diagnostic criteria as in adults; however, symptom expression differs and is often reflected in the children’s behavior. The publication analyzes the impact of traumatic experiences and explores psychobiological changes in brain function caused by PTSD in children and adolescents. It is established that the severity of these manifestations depends on multiple factors, such as the duration and intensity of the trauma, parental behavior, the child’s age, internal resilience mechanisms, and access to external physical, emotional, and social support. The article emphasizes that the clinical manifestations of PTSD during the ongoing Russian-Ukrainian war may have distinct features, as children continue to be exposed to traumatic experiences while living in a war zone. The publication also reviews current evidence-based models of PTSD development and manifestation in children and adolescents.