Traumatic Life Experience

Abstract

The article reports on traumatic events on six clients who visited the Language and Speech Centre of the University of Education, Winneba, between1994 and 2002 of which the writer is the clinician. The aim of the centre is to correct clients' speech disorders and to counsel families. However, cases on rape, effects of maternal stress and episodes of death due to cancer in a family were other traumatic events reported. Findings revealed that post traumatic stress disorders (PTSD) such as “flashbacks” of the painful experiences not withstanding impact negatively on families and clinicians. Recommendations for public awareness as to the roles of counsellors' and access to counselling centers have been stressed.


(IFE PsychologIA: 2003 11 (1): 100--116)