The Prevalence and Associated Factors of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder in Children in Africa

Abstract

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a significant mental health condition among children exposed to traumatic experiences such as violence, abuse, armed conflict, disasters, and displacement. Despite increasing recognition of childhood trauma as a major public health concern, the burden of PTSD among children remains underreported in many low and middle income countries, particularly within African settings where exposure to adverse experiences is often high. This review aimed to determine the prevalence of PTSD among children and to examine factors associated with variations in prevalence across different populations and settings. A literature review was conducted using studies involving children aged below 18 years. The findings demonstrated that PTSD in children is a multifaceted condition influenced by an interplay of trauma-related, individual, familial, and environmental factors. While global prevalence rates remain relatively moderate, significantly higher rates are observed in trauma-exposed and high-risk populations, particularly in African and conflict-affected settings. Key associated factors include trauma severity, female gender, older age, prior trauma exposure, parental psychopathology, and low social support. Understanding these factors is essential for developing targeted prevention and intervention strategies aimed at reducing the burden of PTSD among children and adolescents. Further research is needed to strengthen epidemiological evidence and guide context-specific interventions in African and other low-resource settings.