Crisis Intervention Responses to Children Victimized by Terrorism: Children Are Not Little Adults

Abstract

This article presents a brief overview of the effects that the threat of terrorism can have on children. To address this fear from a clinical perspective Roberts' (1991, 2005) Seven-Stage Model of crisis intervention is utilized as one very practical method to tackle the growing fears of the American public. Suggestions are provided for parents to assist the child in dealing with terrorism incidents. Too often the notion that adult treatment strategies can be applied to children can obstruct the effectiveness of treatment efforts directed toward children and young adolescents. Application of Roberts' model is stressed as an educational strategy used to help these young individuals cope when faced with the continual threat of a new and different type of war. Recommendations for therapeutic content are made within the current time-limited practice setting.