We were shot in the heart with the bomb attack at Atatürk Airport… We follow the news with deep sadness and make comments. Well, guys; How are they affected by terrorist incidents? Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist Specialist. Dr. Algun Tüfekçi talks about the psychological effects of terrorism…
How do terrorist incidents harm children?
One of the most important factors in the child's spiritual development is the feeling of "trust". The place of trust in the child's development of a positive perspective on the future and life cannot be disputed. Children should feel safe in their environment. News about recent terrorist attacks can damage this sense of security and safety in children.
Children are afraid that such events will happen in the environment they live in, that their loved ones will be harmed, and that they will lose them. With the loss of confidence, the worry that something bad will happen at any moment begins to occur. Therefore, it is useful for adults to take some precautions in this regard.
What precautions can be taken for children?
– Try to keep your child away from terrorist and violent news as much as possible.
– Allow the child to express fears and concerns about possible dangers.
– Answer the child's questions on this subject in general terms, not in detail.
– Indicate that such incidents are rare and that the environment you live in is safe.
– Tell him that you will do everything in your power to protect him and the precautions you have taken in this regard.
– Listen to your child's fear, if his need for attention and security is increasing, show more interest and closeness than usual to comfort him.
– It is comforting and reassuring for you to stay close to each other in the family. Strengthening communication within the family and avoiding violent conversations will help protect the mental health of children and parents against the negative effects of terrorism and violence.
What to do if there is a fear of terrorism?
Despite all these precautions, if your child's mind is constantly busy with these issues and talks about these issues, he or she may experience feelings of fear, anxiety, hopelessness, and pessimism. If you are afraid of encountering such an event, isolate yourself from daily activities, excessive uneasiness, exaggerated fears and anxieties begin to occur, it will be useful to seek support from a specialist in the field of child and adolescent psychiatry.
