International perspectives on traumatic stress: Theory, access, and mental health services

Traumatic stress caused by events such as violence, terror, natural disasters, political conflicts and poverty - to name a few - is a public health concern of alarming magnitude, affecting all. The long-term effects of exposure to these experiences, especially the concept of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), has been studied extensively and used internationally. The investigation of questions about the universality of the post-traumatic response and its applicability across cultural boundaries has yielded fascinating work on the ethno-cultural aspects of PTSD as well as its presentation in specific cultural groups. However, a gap in knowledge still remains in regards to the potential differences and variations in the meaning and perception of trauma, the impact of extreme adversity, and its resolution and management in different cultures. This edited book addresses theoretical and practical issues central to the field of traumatic stress from diverse cultural perspectives and provides a valuable resource for a broad audience of researchers and clinicians. The purpose of this book is to draw attention to issues concerning trauma and culture that are outside of the current accepted psychiatric conceptualizations, including PTSD. The chapters in this volume represent carefully selected examples of topics. Some elucidate the multi-faceted and dynamic resources that cultures bring forth to the perception of trauma, adjustment, coping, and recovery efforts, while others shed light on the essential contribution of cultural factors to the understanding of trauma, needs and treatment. Our hope is that these examples can be generalized and applied to all work on trauma.