Abstract
Natural disasters are stressful to individuals, families, and communities on multiple levels. In the aftermath the stress of rebuilding homes and lives can make it difficult for caregivers to adequately support their children and family. Studies have shown that parental mental health and wellbeing is a protective factor against negative psychological sequelae in children. The current study assessed (N = 106) parents who participated in the Journey of Hope workshop after a 6.3 magnitude earthquake occurred in Christchurch New Zealand in February, 2011. Paired Samples T-tests indicate statistically significant gains (p <.05) in knowledge and reductions in stress after the workshop. Parents were more able to identify: (1) social supports in their community, (2) the ability to identify signs of stress and how stress affects their body, (3) how to cope with stress, and (4) a more positive outlook for the future.
| Original language | English (US) |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 285-296 |
| Number of pages | 12 |
| Journal | Australian Social Work |
| Volume | 67 |
| Issue number | 2 |
| DOIs | |
| State | Published - Apr 2014 |
| Externally published | Yes |
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Keywords
- Caregiver
- Natural Disaster
- Social Work Practice
- Trauma
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Health(social science)
- Social Sciences (miscellaneous)
- Sociology and Political Science