ABSTRACT
The authors’ involvement in the immediate, intermediate, and long-term emotional residual has produced rich insights. Consequently, Oklahoma City presents a unique opportunity to examine the intermediate effects of a single occurrence of terrorism and violent death. The onset of posttraumatic stress disorder was swift, with 76% reporting that it began the first day. The prevalence of posttraumatic stress disorder was significantly lower in the rescue workers than in the sample of primary survivors, which was assessed approximately six months after the event. Almost immediately, there were formal and informal prayers in churches and anywhere people met. The Oklahoma City bombing has given rise to considerable debate over civil liberties, and has led to political activity and changes in laws. Perhaps the most vigorous effort of survivors and victims’ families was expended on the McVeigh trial. At the tenth anniversary of the bombing, it is apparent that the people mental health workers have good reason to be humble as well as proud.
