Cognitive-behavioral theory and preparation for professionals at risk for trauma exposure

Military personnel, emergency first responders, and others whose work environments include exposure to traumatic events are at risk for developing posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). To help prevent negative sequelae, there is a strong need to identify well-operationalized, empirically supported, theoretically framed models of healthy adaptation to potentially traumatic events. Cognitive-behavioral theories (CBTs) describe etiological factors in trauma, guide research that has identified risk for PTSD, and help develop interventions that can effectively reduce posttrauma symptomatology. In this article, the authors draw on CBT and empirical research on post-traumatic stress to propose possible cognitive-behavioral mechanisms in trauma adaptation. They then suggest directions for future research, including areas for prevention interventions for at-risk professionals.