Individual and Community Responses to Trauma and Disaster: The Structure of Human Chaos

Description

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 sterling compilation of authors and researchers ... this book will establish a new gold medal standard for mental health responses to traumatic effects.' T M Keane, National Center for PTSD, Boston. ' ... an invaluable and unique work bringing together for the first time systematic detailed accounts and experiences of workers involved in the aftermath of a variety of disasters ... a comprehensive work for disaster planners as well as those embarking on the next generation of research.' Martin Deahl, British Journal of Medical Psychology ' ... an extremely valuable resource for the novice in the field as well as a ready reference for the seasoned professional. It is an absolute must for anyone interested in the topic. If you work with victims of trauma and disaster, and buy only one book this year, this should be the one ...'. J. D. Baxendale, Journal of Truamatic Stress