Citation

Evans L, Oehler-Stinnett J. Sch. Psychol. Int. 2006; 27(1): 33-55.

Affiliation

Oklahoma State University, Oklahoma, USA

Copyright

(Copyright © 2006, SAGE Publishing)

DOI

10.1177/0143034306062814

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Worldwide children are impacted by natural disasters, including hurricanes, floods, tornadoes, earthquakes, wildfires, landslides and sandstorms, winter and severe storms, heat waves, volcanoes and tsunamis. School psychologists should understand natural disaster effects, such as economic loss, relocation and health concerns and mental health issues. While most children are able to cope, a significant minority develops severe symptoms and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). School psychologists should gain trauma mental health training through the American Psychological Association, the National Association of School Psychologists, and the International School Psychology Association. They can also be involved in school and community prevention, mitigation and educational programming. This article presents an overview for school psychologists of the literature on children in natural disasters.