Given the extent of the problem of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after road accidents, the literature on treatment for PTSD after road accidents is surprisingly limited. This chapter presents a study of the cognitive behavioural treatment of twelve road accident survivors with PTSD. Its sample was drawn from a larger research project investigating the psychological effects of motor vehicle accidents in the USA. The wider project had comprehensively investigated each survivor, using a range of procedures including a structured interview. The assessors were four licensed doctoral-level clinical psychologists, each with over five years' experience of assessing PTSD. The members of the sample were diagnosed for PTSD, using an interview and psychological tests. Their treatment was designed individually for each member, within the overall approach. The rationale for treatment is explained. Tables show the changes in PTSD symptoms, psychological symptoms, and social functioning, during the treatment. Four case studies are given to illustrate the approach used. The study showed that a significant part of the distress associated with road accidents, including PTSD, can be treated by a cognitive behavioural approach, and that certain treatment modalities can be applied to all road accident survivors.
Samenvatting