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Addressing the Needs of Children With Disabilities Experiencing Disaster or Terrorism.
Laura M Stough1, Elizabeth McAdams Ducy2, Donghyun Kang3
1Department of Educational Psychology, Center on Disability and Development, Texas A&M University, Mail Stop 4225, College Station, TX, 77843, USA. lstough@tamu.edu.
Current Psychiatry Reports
|April 14, 2017
Summary
Children with disabilities face greater risks during disasters and terrorism. More research is needed on effective trauma therapies and inclusive disaster preparedness for vulnerable youth.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Disaster studies
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Adults with disabilities face heightened risks in disasters due to social disparities.
- Limited research exists on disaster/terrorism impacts on children with disabilities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review empirical literature on psychosocial factors affecting children with disabilities during disasters or terrorism.
- To identify gaps in research and interventions for this vulnerable population.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of empirical studies.
- Analysis of psychosocial factors and their impact.
- Evaluation of existing trauma-focused therapies.
Main Results:
- Few studies focus on children with disabilities post-disaster/terrorism.
- Evidence for trauma therapy effectiveness in this group is limited.
- Secondary adversities like stigma hinder recovery.
- Schools and teachers play a crucial role in recovery.
- Disasters increase disability incidence and disproportionately affect children with pre-existing disabilities.
Conclusions:
- Disaster preparedness must address the unique vulnerabilities of children with disabilities.
- Societal changes are necessary to reduce risks for this population.
- Further research is essential to develop targeted interventions and support systems.