Citation

Hawkins NA, McIntosh DN, Silver RC, Holman EA. J. Emot. Abuse 2004; 4(3-4): 197-223.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2004, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1300/J135v04n03_12

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

On April 20, 1999, two angry students attacked Columbine High School. The unprecedented murder/suicide resulted in 15 deaths, more than 20 injuries, and thousands of psychologically traumatized individuals. We present a qualitative analysis of interviews conducted two weeks after the incident with 4 Columbine High School students and 7 parents who were directly and indirectly affected.

FINDINGS highlight both similarities and variability in immediate emotional, cognitive, and social responses to the mass violence. Helpful and unhelpful support attempts are noted. Implications of the media's heavy involvement in sensational traumas are discussed, emphasizing important considerations for future research on the psychological effects of school violence. © 2004 by The Haworth Press, Inc. All rights reserved.

Language: en

Keywords

human; cognition; violence; homicide; suicide; Media; Coping; school; Workplace violence; Social support; article; social aspect; emotion; qualitative analysis; School violence; Adjustment; Terrorist attacks; Traumatic events