فهرست نشریات علمی دسترسی آزاد ایران

Context: War exposes children to severe trauma (e.g., bombings or the loss of loved ones), leading to significant psychological harm, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This study aimed to review existing evidence on the role of war in the development of PTSD among children and adolescents. Results: The review identified 17 studies, three of which were longitudinal and 14 cross-sectional. Sample sizes ranged from 81 to 1,078 participants. Among the selected studies, the majority (8 studies) focused on Palestinian children and adolescents. The prevalence of PTSD among children and adolescents affected by war and its direct consequences varied significantly, ranging from 95% (Russia-Ukraine war) to 6% (Israeli regime’s attacks on Palestinians). Conclusions: Based on the findings of this review, global health policymakers must prioritize comprehensive mental health programs during wars and humanitarian crises — particularly by ensuring immediate and long-term psychological support for displaced children and adolescents.