Rethinking the Trauma of War

In recent years, the psychological effects of violence andwarfare 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 book examines emerging concerns about the export of trauma experts and counsellors to war-torn 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. DESCRIPTION : Patrick Bracken is Consultant Psychiatrist at the Dept of Social and Economic Studies in the University of Bradford, and Celia Petty is Social Policy Advisor for Save the Children Fund, London.