Natural Disasters: PTSD Among Children

Natural disasters affect entire communities and can have devastating consequences. After such trauma, researchers have found that for many children, returning back to structure and routine reduces anxiety and depression. Schools and school personnel are integral to recognizing and assisting in trauma-related symptoms in children following a natural disaster. The National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) has published an article acknowledging that school personnel should be trained in how to handle the after-effects of natural disasters and to work in conjunction with other local, state, and federal agencies providing support and counseling following such disasters.

After reading “Responding to Natural Disasters: Helping Children and Families: Information for School Crisis Teams,” consider the question(s) below. Then “submit” your response.

Question 1

Which of the following is not a noted typical reaction of preschoolers following a natural disaster?

A.
B.
C.
D.

Which of the following is not a noted typical reaction of preschoolers following a natural disaster?

Question 2

La Greca and colleagues developed a manual for professionals working with elementary-school-aged children following natural disasters. Which of the following is not a key component of the manual?

A.
B.
C.
D.

La Greca and colleagues developed a manual for professionals working with elementary-school-aged children following natural disasters. Which of the following is not a key component of the manual? 

Question 3

Relocating people after a natural disaster has been associated with higher levels of what?

A.
B.
C.
D.

Question 4

According to the article certain characteristics or experiences heighten a child’s risk of developing PTSD following a natural disaster. Name at least two characteristics or experiences that would likely result in long-term difficulties for a child.

According to the article certain characteristics or experiences heighten a child’s risk of developing PTSD following a natural disaster. Name at least two characteristics or experiences that would likely result in long-term difficulties for a child.
One possible answer might consist of having their physical safety threatened and losing their home.

Question 5

What might be some triggers for panic attacks or bouts of anxiety for children in the period after an earthquake?

One possible answer might mention loud noises, including thunder, and the smell of smoke and rubber.