Trauma and Stressor-Related Disorders

This chapter focuses on gender differences in trauma exposure and the development of posttraumatic sequelae over the life course. First, we review the prevalence of trauma exposure and posttraumatic sequelae with particular attention to comorbidity and disability or impairment. Second, we review psychobiological processes that explain risk for various types of posttraumatic sequelae with a focus on gender and comorbidity. Third, we review the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for various disorders associated with trauma exposure. Fourth, we review the best available instruments designed to assess these disorders. Fifth, we review the current best practices for treatment of these conditions including psychopharmacology, psychotherapy, and combined approaches designed to treat comorbid conditions. We conclude that despite a large body of research documenting gender differences in trauma exposure and trauma-related disorders much work remains to be done in this area.