Helping Children Exposed to War and Violence: Perspectives from an International Work Group on Interventions for Youth and Families

Author: Kletter Hilit   Rialon Rebecca   Laor Nathaniel   Brom Daniel   Pat-Horenczyk Ruth   Shaheen Mohammed   Hamiel Daniel   Chemtob Claude   Weems Carl   Feinstein Carl   Lieberman Alicia   Reicherter Daryn   Song Suzan   Carrion Victor  

Publisher: Springer Publishing Company

ISSN: 1053-1890

Source: Child and Youth Care Forum, Vol.42, Iss.4, 2013-08, pp. : 371-388

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Abstract

This paper outlines conclusions from a three-day workgroup hosting the eight authors as well as others with expertise in the evaluation and treatment of youth exposed to war and violence.The purpose of this meeting was to bring multiple perspectives together to identify components that comprise effective psychosocial interventions for child victims of war and community violence across cultures. The meeting also sought to identify gaps in the existing treatment approaches.In the meeting, personal experiences and previous research were discussed to develop a wide-ranging intervention approach, determine a cohesive definition for “indirect” exposure, and identify successful methods of intervention delivery for youth exposed to acts of war and violence.Key components of intervention for youth exposed to war/violence, important outcome measures, and cultural differences that may influence effective intervention were identified. A clearer definition of “indirect” exposure was also developed. Finally, a nine-phase model was developed to provide guidelines for establishing partnerships between trauma teams and other organizations or schools to implement and disseminate treatment for this population.