The Emotional Impact of Disaster on Children and Families

The Emotional Impact of Disaster on Children and Families

Description:

This 43-page resource is from a larger publication and training program entitled “Pediatric Education in Disasters Manual” (PEDs). This ninth module (part of a 10-module series) discusses both immediate and chronic care needs. Typical responses/psychological reactions and needs by age group are discussed in detail. The manual notes that “interventions…should be informed by a resilience perspective.” The manual emphasizes the following:

• Recommendations to provide to other significant adults, such as teachers
• How clinical care complements other interventions in affected communities
• How training pediatricians, nurses, school-based staff, and other professionals will be beneficial to provide effective management, intervention, and support for affected children and families, particularly in geographic areas with limited access to needed staff and resources

The 10-module manual is available in English and Spanish and is intended to be used in international settings in areas that are diverse in terms of development, wealth, access to care, or other resources. Eight of the 10 modules were revised for potential use in the United States. The manual is aimed primarily at educating physicians on the topic of providing care to children (and their families) in disaster situations.

Target Situation:

Pediatricians (and other physicians) who want to learn about providing care and mental health and community-based referrals for children and their families in disaster situations.