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The Tragedy of Terrorism
Helping Your Kids Cope
In the wake of terrorist attacks on the United States, Americans are struggling with feelings of shock, fear and helplessness.
Children are most vulnerable during this time to the effects of the violent images they see on television. It is important for parents to pull themselves away from the news coverage, turn the television off and talk to their families, according to Dr. Steven Pierrel, a psychologist and an associate professor with the department of family and community medicine at Baylor College of Medicine.
"We need to listen to the concerns of our children and learn what meaning they are attaching to these events," Dr. Pierrel says. "It is our responsibility to talk with them, share our perspective and provide a place of comfort and security as they come to grips with these tragic events."
There are several ways parents and others who care for children can help alleviate the emotional consequences of trauma, including the following tips provided by the American Psychological Association.
- Spend more time with children and let them be more dependent on you during the months following the trauma. For example, allow your child to cling to you more often than usual.
- Provide play experiences to help relieve tension. Younger children in particular may find it easier to share their ideas and feelings about the event through non-verbal activities such as drawing.
- Encourage older children to speak with you and with one another about their thoughts and feelings. This helps reduce their confusion and anxiety related to the trauma. Respond to questions in terms they can comprehend. Reassure them repeatedly that you care about them and that you understand their fears and concerns.
- Keep regular schedules for activities such as eating, playing and going to bed to help restore a sense of security and normalcy.
