The strides in the integration of the borderline problems between neurology and psychiatry are well illustrated by this article in which thorough physical and mental studies of the posttraumatic syndromes are made. 'In the majority of cases, dynamic relationships between psychological problems and prolonged posttraumatic syndromes could be established.' The authors find that the trauma may represent a materialization of unconscious wishes, may serve as a displacement mechanism for other emotional problems or may provide an escape from intolerable situations. The need for personality studies as part of the routine work-up for early recognition of neurotic elements in the clinical picture and for psychotherapy are stressed and provide a welcome statement of principles in this field.