Mass violence and mental health: Attachment and trauma

Abstract

This article focuses on post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as both one of the most important mental health consequences of mass violence and as the manifestation of a disrupted human attachment system. The implications are many in terms of treatment and prevention. For instance, since the vulnerability to PTSD appears to be transmitted down the generations via the psychobiological manifestations of the parents' attachment system, prevention requires the effective treatment of afflicted communities within a context of strong social support. More specific guidelines for intervention are outlined focusing on the role of psychosocial workers and their need to be carefully selected, trained and supervised. Failure to tackle the effects of mass violence and to prevent further psychological damage through political action has serious implications in terms of the future of mankind.

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