Children with PTSD more likely to have Afflicted Mother

A recent study conducted to researchers at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev (BGU) shows that children are more likely to develop post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) if their mother is already afflicted by the health issue. 

Research findings showed that approximately 10 percent of mothers in the sample were suffering from PTSD, more than a fifth (21 percent) of their children showed similar symptoms to the behavioral disorder. In fact, children who developed PTSD symptoms also showed more psychosomatic complains, including constipation, headaches and diarrhea. 

"This study reinforces the existing body of knowledge regarding the importance of evaluating and treating parental responses in time of stress," the researchers note, via a press release. "Parents are often the key to understanding children's responses generally and specifically in times of stress. The study also highlights the close interrelations between 'body and soul' among children and adults."

The study showed that more than 160 preschool children who were interviewed regarding symptoms experienced by their children and their own responses during Operation Cast Lead. Background information from the study notes that more than 750 rockets were fired into Southern Israel from GAZA during December 2008 and to January 2009. 

The researchers also examined the relationship between PTSD symptoms and socio-demographic attributes experienced through the family, including psychosomatic symptoms experienced by children who were exposed to the Grad missile attacks in Beer-Sheva Israel. 

Do you or someone in your family suffer from symptoms of PTSD? Share in the comments below.

More information regarding the study can be found in the journal of Depression and Anxiety.