ABSTRACT
Children can be exposed to violent conflict in many ways, as illustrated by the chapters in this book. The extent to which children are affected by this exposure —both short term and long term-is determined, in part, by reactions of parents and teachers (Figley, 1989b; Hobfoll et al., 1991). It is argued here that children not directly in harm’s way experience mostly tertiary traumatic stress. Although this stress may be detrimental and may have negative consequences for many years, in most cases children recover quickly once the sources of stress are eliminated. However, children’s primary sources of support-parents, teachers and other adults —may experience primary or secondary traumatic stress connected with the war and may require immediate assistance. Otherwise, their ability to work with their children may be greatly impaired.
