Individual and Community Responses to Trauma and Disaster (Paperback)

Robert J. Ursano

ISBN 10: 0521556430 / ISBN 13: 9780521556439

Published by Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, 1995

About this Item

Paperback. The aims of this book are twofold: to improve understanding of the human experience of trauma, whether at the level of the individual or the community, and to help those who are its victims. The range of issues covered is impressive, from the biological basis of post-traumatic stress reactions, through practical strategies for prevention and treatment, to the psychosocial and fictional construction of terror. Wherever possible the editors have sought to impart understanding, order, and predictability to the experience of trauma and disasters in the belief that the way to recovery is through the mastery of chaotic events. This book will serve and inform clinicians, administrators and research workers in psychiatry, psychology, public health and related areas. A reference text on the effect of trauma and disasters, for health professionals and research workers. Shipping may be from multiple locations in the US or from the UK, depending on stock availability.

Seller Inventory # 9780521556439

Bibliographic Details

• Title: Individual and Community Responses to Trauma and Disaster (Paperback)
• Publisher: Cambridge University Press, Cambridge
• Publication Date: 1995
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0521556430
• ISBN 13: 9780521556439
• Binding: Paperback
• Edition: 1st Edition
• Condition: new

About this title

Synopsis

Coping with disaster is an overwhelming and often baffling task for survivors, rescue workers, and clinicians. This volume looks in depth at how people experience trauma and suggests practical strategies for treatment. The authors examine issues ranging from the biological basis of posttraumatic stress reaction to the psychosocial and fictional construction of terror, and disasters ranging from random acts of violence to war. From Chernobyl to Desert Storm, from Kentucky floods to Norwegian avalanches, the authors explore the effects of trauma on adults and children. They find certain commonalities in human response to disasters of all kinds, and hold that by understanding these partially predictable patterns of reaction, mastery of chaos, and finally recovery can occur. Based on their comprehensive analysis, they suggest disaster intervention strategies that emphasize recognition of the psychological effects of trauma, as well as preparedness and prevention.

From the Back Cover

Traumas and disasters throw lives into chaos and fill individuals with the terror of the unexpected and the fear of loss, injury and death. Trauma is always a catalyst for change and adjustment; for some it also becomes a life wound. A surprisingly high number of people are exposed to traumatic events each year. The effects of such events extend well beyond the direct victims to include their families, their communities, and those who try to help. All become part of the trauma and disaster community.