Keywords

posttraumatic stress, preparedness training, PTSD, September 11, teacher preparedness, terrorism, terrorism preparedness, terrorism response

 

Authors

  1. Pfefferbaum, Rose L. PhD, MPH
  2. Fairbrother, Gerry PhD
  3. Brandt, Edward N. Jr MD, PhD
  4. Robertson, Madeline J. JD, MD
  5. Gurwitch, Robin H. PhD
  6. Stuber, Jennifer PhD
  7. Pfefferbaum, Betty MD, JD

Abstract

Teachers are frequently expected to support children psychologically in the aftermath of mass casualty events, yet they generally have not been trained to do so. This study of a small private school in New York City reports the reactions, needs, and interests in preparedness training among teachers in response to the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. By and large, teachers coped by talking to others and/or a health professional, but felt ill-equipped to intervene with students and expressed substantial need for assistance.