NCJ Number
213453
Date Published
2006
Length
11 pages
Annotation
This chapter first offers 10 suggestions for responding to the psychological harm caused by terrorism, followed by descriptions of specific actions taken during the September 11 crisis that managed trauma and created order in a time of chaos and fear.
Abstract
One suggestion for countering the psychological harm that can be caused by terrorism is to maintain one's sense of moral integrity and spiritual well-being in the face of actual and threatened terrorist attacks. Second, have a clear understanding of the enemy's strengths, weaknesses, and resources, in order to have a realistic assessment of his future behavior. Third, train leaders in crisis communications as an important aspect of crisis leadership. Fourth, establish psychological support mechanisms, including crisis intervention hotlines, outreach personnel, and crisis centers as needed. Fifth, provide family supports, so that crisis responses do not weaken the resources of individuals' basic social unit. Sixth, create organizational and community support networks. Seventh, re-establish normal communication, transportation, economic, educational, and work schedules as soon as possible. Eighth, honor the contributions of both the living and the dead. Ninth, speed the transition from impact, rescue, and recovery to rebuilding and envisioning a positive future. Tenth, look for new opportunities for personal awareness, spiritual growth, and family resolutions. The examples of specific actions taken in the aftermath of the September 11 attacks pertain to strengthening leadership, an ongoing assessment of response services, the strengthening of frontline personnel, ongoing outreach and feedback, and residential town meetings. Another lesson learned is that multiple phases of a response to a terrorist event require specific skills and may involve using different groups at different times. A single entity should control an integrated, multiphase plan. 9 references