Normal and abnormal responses to stress, disasters, war and civil conflict, and interpersonal violence are discussed, together with diagnosis, interventions and treatments, and legal aspects. There is reference to research findings throughout, and discussion of future research needs; each chapter contains a comprehensive bibliography. With contributions by many of the UK's leading authorities on responses to traumatic events, and edited by four clinicians with extensive experience on the subject, this first UK textbook on psychological trauma will be valuable to health and social services professionals, lawyers, and those who plan responses to disasters and help organise services. It will also provide a useful introduction to trainees in the various mental health and legal disciplines interested in the subject.