How Pediatricians Can Respond to the Psychosocial Implications of Disasters

Abstract

Natural and human-caused disasters, violence with weapons, and terrorist acts have touched directly the lives of thousands of families with children in the United States.1 Media coverage of disasters has brought images of floods, hurricanes, and airplane crashes into the living rooms of most American families, with limited censorship for vulnerable young children. Therefore, children may be exposed to disastrous events in ways that previous generations never or rarely experienced. Pediatricians should serve as important resources to the community in preparing for disasters, as well as acting in its behalf during and after such events.

Communicating effectively with vulnerable populations during water contamination events

“…In times of crisis, it is essential to communicate to them that they are safe and avoid inducing unnecessary fear and anxiety (Maibach 1995;Wolraich et al 1999;Hagan 2005;Markenson & Reynolds 2006). When preparing messages for children or adolescents, their parents and teachers need to be involved in both the development of the messages and their transmission.…”

“…It is also essential that exposure to the media be monitored, as overexposure can be traumatizing. This is especially an important consideration for unsupervised latchkey kids (Maibach 1995;Wolraich et al 1999;Hagan 2005;Markenson & Reynolds 2006). …”