**9. Conclusion**

Although changes in emotional, cognitive, behavioral, and biologic states are transitory for most individuals after a catastrophe or major trauma, psychological trauma may persist much longer in some victims. While the psychological profiles of these victims are often altered, given their vivid and repetitive recollection of the traumatic events (Chou et al., 2004b; Chou et al., 2005; Lin et al., 2002), Wang et al. (2000) determined that prompt and effective post-disaster intervention might mitigate the impact of initial exposure and reduce the probability of PTSD occurrence. Issues related to PTSD most in need of further study include biological causation, psychosocial recovery, and long-term evaluation of psychological rehabilitation.
