Sharon, a five-year-old girl, developed the following symptoms after being sexually molested: difficulty sleeping, nightmares, a tendency to be easily startled, and bedwetting. Which of the following would be the most likely diagnosis for Sharon?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Sharon's symptoms are consistent with those of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which is a common reaction to sexual abuse. Difficulty sleeping, nightmares, hyperarousal and Startle response are some of the key features of PTSD. Enuresis disorder (bedwetting) can be one of the symptoms of PTSD in children. Attachment disorder, in which children have difficulty forming and maintaining relationships with others, is not a likely diagnosis in this case. Adjustment disorder may cause some of these symptoms but is not caused by sexual abuse.

Sharon, a Five-Year-Old Girl, Developed the Following Symptoms After Being