Citation

Walker KL, Chestnut D. Cultur. Divers. Ethnic Minor. Psychol. 2003; 9(3): 251-262.

Affiliation

Department of Psychology, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27858, USA. walkerka@mail.ecu.edu

Copyright

(Copyright © 2003, Society for the Psychological Study of Ethnic Minority Issues; American Psychological Association)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

12971092

Abstract

The threat of terrorism is having a profound impact on Americans. This study examined ethnocultural variables of ethnic background, gender, age, and educational background to better understand first reactions to, explanations for, and responses to what happened on September 11, 2001. Data were obtained from a sample of university students, church and civic group members, and people of the general community. Results suggest that ethnic background, gender, and age influence reactions to terrorism. Ethnic background and gender influenced causal explanations about the attacks. Strong gender differences were noted in how participants were affected by the attacks; strongest similarities were observed in reports of first reactions to news of the events, with most people experiencing shock and disbelief. Conclusions stress the importance of future mental health interventions and research giving strong consideration to ethnocultural variables when dealing with victims of terrorism.

Language: en