Pediatric Medical Traumatic Stress in Individuals With Craniofacial Conditions

Purpose: This article reviews the literature focused on the psychological effects of craniofacial care for patients and their families. It provides an overview of pediatric medical traumatic stress (PMTS) associated with craniofacial conditions and related care, along with a review of its risk and protective factors. Findings from studies of PMTS in craniofacial populations are also reviewed. Conclusions: The article concludes with strategies for identifying, addressing, and preventing medical traumatic stress in the context of craniofacial care. Specific implications for speech-language pathologists are also shared with respect to ways of minimizing risks for medical traumatic stress in craniofacial care. Future directions are also delineated and include strategies to improve screening and support for patients with craniofacial conditions and their families, along with the development of interventions aimed at increasing resilience.