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Posttraumatic stress reactions in new York City children after the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks

Gerry Fairbrother1, Jennifer Stuber, Sandro Galea

  • 1Division of Health and Science Policy, The New York Academy of Medicine, New York, NY 10029, USA. gfairbro@NYAM.org

Ambulatory Pediatrics : the Official Journal of the Ambulatory Pediatric Association
|November 18, 2003
PubMed

Insights

Following the September 11 attacks, 18% of New York City children experienced severe posttraumatic stress reactions (PTSR). Parental PTSD and media exposure were key predictors of PTSR in children.

Area of Science:

  • Child Psychology
  • Trauma Studies
  • Public Health

Background:

  • The September 11, 2001, attacks had a profound impact on New York City (NYC).
  • Assessing the mental health consequences for children is crucial for understanding long-term effects.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the prevalence of posttraumatic stress reactions (PTSR) in NYC children after the 9/11 attacks.
  • To identify significant predictors of PTSR in this pediatric population.

Main Methods:

  • A cross-sectional survey was conducted with parents of children aged 4-17 in NYC.
  • The Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Reaction Index-Child Revision was used to measure PTSR in children.

Main Results:

  • 18% of NYC children exhibited severe or very severe PTSR.
  • 66% of children experienced moderate PTSR.
  • Parental PTSD, parental crying, high exposure to graphic TV images, and living in Manhattan predicted severe PTSR.

Conclusions:

  • A significant number of NYC children displayed severe PTSR post-9/11.
  • Pediatricians play a vital role in screening, treatment, and referral for childhood PTSR.
  • Limiting children's exposure to disaster media and providing emotional support are key recommendations.
Abstract

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