PSYCHOSOCIAL ASPECTS OF DISASTER

Course overview

This advanced level course provides information on the key factors associated with the psychosocial aspects of disasters and how these factors relate to providing social and psychological interventions. The course discusses coping and community stress, disaster mental health protocols, types of individual stress reactions, the phases of disaster, and risk factors for ongoing distress. Intervention strategies and information on working with special populations are also included. Course Objectives: 1. Describe the distinguishing characteristics and interacting elements of human made and natural disasters. 2. Discuss the socio cultural, political, and economic aspects of disaster aftermath and the effects on recovery. 3. Discuss the psychological phases and stages of disaster. 4. Identify common psychological symptoms in disaster survivors and risk factors for maladjustment to traumatic stress. 5. Explain the role of a behavioral health intervention following a disaster.