Victims and witnesses of trauma are prone to what has been termed acute stress disorder. This text outlines the rationale and techniques to prevent the onset of post traumatic stress disorder by identifying those with acute stress disorder.

Accidents and disasters dominate the headlines and news programmes, capturing, for a while, the attention and sympathy of the public. But for the victims and witnesses of trauma, the psychological effects are far from fleeting. Recent research shows that the psychological reactions in the initial aftermath of the trauma are a critical predictor of longer-term adjustment. This text provides a comprehensive clinical examination of acute stress disorder (ASD) since its 1994 introduction into DSM-IV as a diagnostic category. The authors outline the rationale and techniques to prevent the development of PTSD by identifying and treating those with ASD. Drawing from their pioneering clinical and research experience, they review the underlying theoretical issues, then present a step-by-step guide to assessing and treating ASD, and detail the procedures for using cognitive behaviour therapy to treat ASD. The book is a suitable reference for academic and clinical psychologists, psychiatrists and other mental health professionals working with victims of trauma.

The Emergence of Acute Stress Disorder
Theoretical Perspectives of Acute Stress Disorder
Empirical Status of Acute Stress Disorder
How to Diagnoze Acute Stress Disorder
Assessment Tools
What Do You Know About Treating Acute Stress Disorder
Treating Acute Stress Disorder
Treatment Obstacles
Special Populations
The Role of Debriefing
Legal Issues
Acute Stress Disorder Interview
Acute Stress Disorder Scale.