“Frank Putnam is a wonder! Inspired to study the profound effects of child sexual abuse, at a time when the establishment deliberately ignored the subject, Dr. Putnam carried on over decades with a study that is foundational in the traumatic stress field. ” – Judith Herman, MD – author of Truth and Repair.
“A riveting story detailing the science of child sexual abuse, the incredible political complexities of studying this dark aspect of our society, and the (sometimes malicious) resistance of the mental health field to deal with its devastating consequences.” – Bessel van der Kolk, MD – author of The Body Keeps the Score.
About the Book
Old Before Their Time is the first complete account of the landmark Female Growth an Development Study (FGDS), tracing its full arc from inception to today. Dr. Putnam retraces four decades of caring and advocating for maltreated children as he circled from the lab to the clinic to the statehouse. The book blends Dr. Putnam’s deeply personal mission with rigorous science to convey the devastating impact of child maltreatment to individuals, communities, and nations.
“I have had some deep glimpses into the enduring carnage wrought by childhood abuse. This book is an insider’s look at the trials and tribulations, challenges and rewards, of working within a complex, multi-institutional, sometimes dysfunctional child protection/mental health world to protect children and to enhance their wellbeing.” Frank W. Putnam, MD February 6, 2026
“Frank Putnam is a wonder! Inspired to study the profound effects of child sexual abuse, at a time when the establishment deliberately ignored the subject, Dr. Putnam carried on over decades with a study that is foundational in the traumatic stress field. ” – Judith Herman, MD – author of Truth and Repair.
“A riveting story detailing the science of child sexual abuse, the incredible political complexities of studying this dark aspect of our society, and the (sometimes malicious) resistance of the mental health field to deal with its devastating consequences.” – Bessel van der Kolk, MD – author of The Body Keeps the Score.
About the Book
Old Before Their Time is the first complete account of the landmark Female Growth and Development Study (FGDS), tracing its full arc from inception to today. Dr. Putnam retraces four decades of caring and advocating for maltreated children as he circled from the lab to the clinic to the statehouse. The book blends Dr. Putnam’s deeply personal mission with rigorous science to convey the devastating impact of child maltreatment to individuals, communities, and nations.
“I have had some deep glimpses into the enduring carnage wrought by childhood abuse. This book is an insider’s look at the trials and tribulations, challenges and rewards, of working within a complex, multi-institutional, sometimes dysfunctional child protection/mental health world to protect children and to enhance their wellbeing.” Frank W. Putnam, MD February 6, 2026