Origins of Traumatology and Prospects for the Future, Part I

The first part of this article defines the field of traumatology and provides a brief review of the roots of the field. The next section of the paper discusses some of the more important historical and conceptual facets of the field prior to and immediately following the promulgation of the diagnosis of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder. Of special note here are the role of social policy, the influence of social justice, and the need for the infrastructure of a new field of study and practice. Subsequent articles will discuss the more recent developments within the field and the prospects for current and future research and treatment on behalf of the traumatized. Key Words: Traumatologyposttraumatic stress disorderstressphysiological and psychological mechanismshysteriawar veteransconcentration camp survivorsfamily violencesexual assaultbattered woman syndromecrime victimsdisaster victimsterror- and hostage-related traumaSociety for Traumatic Stress Studiessocial justice