Publisher's Synopsis
Unfortunately, wars and terrorism continue to rage. The countless children who survive such violence require our assistance for psychosocial recovery. The purpose of this book is to show how community-based psychosocial approaches promote the psychosocial well being of children following war and terrorism. These approaches can benefit from a thoughtful synthesis of both experiential and empirical strategies. The range of topics covered is theoretical perspectives, practical issues and scientific questions concerning psychosocial interventions for children. The major focus in this book is on community-based interventions that link individual mental health/psychosocial well being with the health and stability of the community. There is much discussion about the best conceptual models within which to characterise the most effective community-based interventions and about whether it was possible to identify general principles for intervention that would be acceptable to all. In addition, three major domains of concern are identified as areas requiring further thought and development: implementation, program evaluation and research, and education and influence. The chapters in this book reflect the richness of the varying perspectives proposed on these issues. A number of conceptual models are presented that include specific case examples. A. Mikus-Kos provides a comprehensive theory of social reconstruction in post-war communities that remain torn by ethnic distrust based on a painful collective history. His model emphasises: recovery from losses, violence and trauma; establishing social norms and tolerance; building community empowerment; promoting tolerance and ability to live together; establishing community trust and co-operation; promoting reconciliation; and achieving community stability and progress.
