Trauma and Sexual Abuse Research Seminar

Designed for graduate and medical students and resident physicians interested in learning about biobehavioral trauma research. Introduction to DSM-IV TR diagnostic criteria for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), as well as biopsychosocial sequela. Examination and discussion of child and adult sexual abuse in context of being causative precursors of acute and chronic causes of PTSD. Evaluation of allostatic load, among other biologic variables, within context of physiological markers for PTSD. Review of current modes of treatment, including therapeutic and pharmacological interventions. Discussion of research methods particularly important for trauma research.

S/U or letter grading.