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Published on: September 28, 2018
Dutch politicians' coping with terrorist threat
Mirjam J Nijdam1, Berthold P R Gersons, Miranda Olff
1Department of Psychiatry, Academic Medical Centre at the University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 5, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands. m.j.nijdam@amc.uva.nl
Summary
Political leaders under terrorist threat experience varied psychosocial effects. Coping strategies included emotion-focused and instrumental approaches, with some reporting post-traumatic stress symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Political Science
- Security Studies
Background:
- Terrorist threats and close protection significantly impact political leaders.
- Previous research has not systematically explored the psychosocial effects on this demographic.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically investigate the psychosocial effects of terrorist threat and close protection on political leaders and their partners.
- To identify coping mechanisms employed by individuals under such high-stress conditions.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative study involving in-depth interviews.
- Participants included 12 Dutch politicians and their partners.
- Focus on experiences following political murders and subsequent security measures.
Main Results:
- Diverse coping strategies were identified: emotion-focused, defensive, palliative, and instrumental.
- Some individuals exhibited symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder.
- Observed tendencies towards altered opinions on sensitive political issues.
Conclusions:
- Psychosocial support is crucial for political leaders facing terrorist threats.
- Understanding coping mechanisms can inform interventions to mitigate negative psychological impacts.
- The findings highlight the need for tailored support systems for high-risk political figures.
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