Rethinking the Trauma of War

In recent years, the psychological effects of violence and warfare on civilian populations have increasingly become the focus of humanitarian relief operations. After both natural and man-made disasters, efforts to provide de- briefing, counselling and therapy for survivors are widely seen as an essential part of the emergency response. Much of the analysis of trauma has revolved around the concept of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder(PTSD). It is now generally assumed that PTSD captures the fundamental psychological disturbance after any particular type of trauma or extreme event. However, there is now growing concern that models developed in Western psychiatry in response to trauma should not be used uncritically in societies that do not share the same cultural preoccupations. So rapid has been the response that there has been little time to reflect on the relevance of psyche- social trauma projects for local populations. This book examines emerging concems about the export of trauma experts and counsellors to war-tom areas of the world. The contributors are all professionals who are involved in helping adults and children rebuild their lives after witnessing the destruction of their families and communities. Based on their own experience of working internationally, this book presents both an analysis of current, misconceived, attempts to give help but also an agenda for future, more appropriate ways of responding to those affected by wars and conflicts.

Bracken, Consultant Psychiatrist, Univ of Bradford