ABSTRACT
The War Childhood Museum, in Sarajevo Bosnia-Herzgovina, was identified as a logical collaborator with which to further the study and achieve the targeted broader sample. Most staff and leadership are themselves war children, which is considered very important and informs the personal sensitivity and empathy that form a core aspect of the museum experience. Staff and leadership described their own emotional engagement with the museum in various ways, and the needs for preparation, supportive relationships, and empathy among administration. The museum’s founding team was mindful of the psychological nature of the museum project and the need for expertise in trauma and mental health as it established the museum design and guidelines and preparatory materials for staff and administration. As the museum was being created, guidelines and preparatory materials were established to help educate and prepare staff for emotional experiences with visitors and participants.
