ABSTRACT
Studies of combat veterans from the wars of the 20th century have raised many questions. Are those who develop combat PTSD vulnerable due to having a preexisting condition, less resilience to stress, or a problem in their emotional stability or character? Alternatively, is it possible that combat PTSD occurs regardless of premilitary status? There are many proponents with persuasive notions for each of these views (Boman, 1982). Because most combatants are older adolescents or young adults, these questions are of particular interest to adolescent psychiatrists. An examination of the ways in which the adolescent developmental process itself might contribute to vulnerability to combat trauma may suggest answers to some of these questions.
