Victims of Disaster, War, Violence, or Homicide: Psychological Effects on Siblings

Abstract

There is increasing interest in the psychological effects of violence and disaster in both adults and children, although much remains to be understood. Siblings of children who have undergone such experiences have been little studied. Such siblings may be bereaved or may experience changes in family circumstances, or may develop psychological sequelae. They may be affected by legal procedures and media coverage. This new understanding of the needs of siblings may have implications for service development, including health and education.

Using therapeutic board games to promote child mental health

“…A group may be constituted by peers, siblings or a family. Playing these games with siblings can be very effective since siblings can, and often do, provide important support for each other (Newman et al, 1997;Dunn & McGuire, 1992;Jenkins & Smith, 1990). Siblings have encountered the same situations but will have their individual interpretations and understanding, depending on their age, gender and temperament.…”

“…The Grief Game is one of the Lifegames where it is of utmost importance that the facilitator is a therapist, bereavement counsellor or an experienced practitioner, since working with bereaved children requires distinctive skills and knowledge (Newman et al, 1997). A good comprehension of the impact of grief and loss, particularly in relation to the age/developmental level of the player(s) and knowledge about the often incomplete understanding of the concepts of death and dying (Landsdown & Benjamin, 1985;Speece & Brent, 1984) is an absolute necessity.…”

“…Families might have difficulties with discussing death in general or the person who has died in particular (Newman et al, 1997). Playing The Grief Game with a family can be beneficial to facilitate intra-familial communication about death or about the person who has passed away.…”