Study: Effects Of Trauma Can Last For Months In Children
By Lynne Adkins
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- When children are traumatized by such incidents as the Boston bombing, how are they affected and what should a parent do to help?
The effects of a trauma, such as the Boston bombing, or an intruder with a gun at your child's school can last for months, according to a new study.
Dr. Elizabeth Gosch, psychologist at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine explains what to expect.
"They might notice they might be having trouble sleeping, they might notice that their eating changes, they might notice the kids are having nightmares, they may show what they call a hyper vigilant or startled response. They just seem on edge and appear to be scanning their environment for danger."
She suggests parents limit exposure to radio and television coverage of the event and remain calm, expressing a sense of safety, explaining the situation in language the child will understand.
