9/11 Anniversary and Children - How Should Parents React?

Although children may not be talking about terrorism fears that does not mean that they're not worried. Unlike previous disasters with a beginning and end, the memories of 9/11 arise every time a color coded alert level is raised, terrorist plots are foiled or parents are subject to long lines at airport searches-- The memories don't fade!

Los Angeles, CA (PRWEB) September 6, 2006 -- Unlike previous disasters with a beginning and end, the memories of 9/11 arise every time a color coded alert level is raised, terrorist plots are foiled or parents are subject to long lines at airport searches--The memories don't fade!

Los Angeles psychologist, Robert R. Butterworth, Ph.D., gives some parental tips as we reach the five year anniversary of 9/11:

Explaining the who, what, where and why of terrorism -- Children who do not know the real facts will fantasize their own version of reality, which can create more stress than would occur by a clear and understandable explanation of reality.

Being alert for anxiety in children who become frightened when exposed to the 9/11 anniversary television coverage -- fear and anxiety can be manifested by attention-getting behavior, physical complaints, regressive symptoms and declining school performance. A child's emotional reaction also can reflects a parent's response to the event.

Parents need to be honest about their emotions and encourage their children to discuss feelings.

Creating a supportive environment in which children can discuss their feelings and even debate with parents their opinions -- honesty regarding parental emotions while talking about feelings in a supportive environment is crucial.

A parent also needs to be sensitive that discussion is not inhibited if a child disagrees with an adult opinion. Exposure to differing viewpoints is healthy. A child's belief often reflects not just the family environment but relatives, friends, school and church beliefs.

Terrorism explanations need to be geared to the child's age level --Some children may be quite sophisticated, others not. Attempt to answer all inquiries in a way that a child can comprehend. The nature of a child's inquiry will usually guide a parental response. Let the child set the pace of questioning, but don't avoid answering direct questions.

Talking about moral issues -- there are important lessons that can be brought out by terrorism and war; It can also lead to a more pessimistic view of the world and of the future for a child.

Talking with children about how some children may stereotype all Arabs in the Middle East as the enemy is also crucial.

Adults in their roles as parents and teachers are the ones who are in close and continuous touch with children. While they realize the need for some extra efforts to help children get over their fears and anxieties, they may not be sure how to go about doing this. It is also important that adults learn to recognize the level or degree of stress or trauma that each child is affected by. Mildly or moderately affected children can be helped to overcome the stress with support and efforts of adult close to them. Severely disturbed children may need professional help.

CONTACT INFORMATION:

Robert R. Butterworth, Ph.D. International Trauma Associates; P.O. Box 76477; Los Angeles, California

Telephone (213) 487-7339 (24 hours) E-Mail: robert@drbutterworth.net FAX: (213) 477-2340

Psychologist and media commentator, Robert R. Butterworth, Ph.D., has assisted radio, TV, and print media since 1984 find answers and provide insight to enhance understanding of psychological issues on a variety of topics. Dr. Butterworth has conducted extensive surveys focused on children and youth, social, political and trauma issues. His comments, observations and op-ed articles have appeared in most of the major newspapers in the United States and worldwide. He is seen quite often on NBC, CBS, ABC, FOX and CNN network news especially during monumental events such as violence, disasters and youth tragedies and psychological reactions to breaking news and human event stories.

Within hours of the Sept. 11th disaster trauma psychologist and media commentator Robert R. Butterworth, Ph.D., was giving ongoing psychological commentary to a traumatized nation. During those crucial days he was called upon almost daily on MSNBC. He also appeared frequently on CNN, CBS, NBC and Fox Network television conveying psychological hope to our nation. He remarks on this crisis were also quoted in Reuters, The Wall Street Journal, and The Los Angeles Times and the Associated Press.

Appearances also include ABC's Nightline, and This Week, CNN's Larry King Live, NBC's, Oprah, Dateline NBC, and Good Morning America. CBS This Morning, The O'Reilly, Factor, Extra and Entertainment Tonight and many network talk and news programs. He is also featured as a psychology expert in various documentaries seen on Discovery, History, E -Entertainment and the Learning Channel. Dr Butterworth also serves as a psychology expert for public relations organizations and is a past consultant for a national Magazine. In addition Dr Butterworth recently had a cameo spot in a major motion picture, "Kate and Leopold," with Meg Ryan and Michael Moore's "Bowling For Columbine."

Qualifications:

Board Certified Traumatic Stress, Diplomate; American Academy of Experts in Traumatic Stress.

Board Certified Diplomate Fellow in Forensic Sciences; International College of Prescribing Psychologists.

Psychoanalytic Psychotherapist Certification: American Board for the Accreditation and Certification of Psychoanalysis, N.Y.

Psychologist License: State of California.

Member:

American Psychological Association / Division of Media Psychology.

California Psychological Association

National Accreditation Association of Psychoanalysis.

International Association of Trauma Counselors.

Biographical Information Included in:

Who's Who of Emerging Leaders in America.

Who's Who in the World.

Who's Who in Science and Industry.

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