What is it about?
Disasters make it hard for mothers with young kids to stay healthy. This study of 201 mothers found that after a terrorist attack, most struggled with self-care, but social support helped. Key needs included outside resources, adapting, and managing stress.
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Why is it important?
This study is important because it addresses the unique and often-overlooked challenges mothers with young children face in maintaining health-promoting activities after disasters. It is timely due to the rising frequency of global and man-made disasters, highlighting the need for targeted support systems that help vulnerable groups recover and maintain well-being. By focusing on mothers, the study sheds light on how disaster exposure affects their ability to engage in essential self-care, with potential long-term effects on both maternal and child health. The study’s emphasis on social support as a protective factor provides valuable insights for developing post-disaster interventions, stressing the importance of building resilient communities. Ultimately, this research can guide policies and programs to better support maternal health in crises, making a meaningful difference in families’ recovery and resilience.
Perspectives
Conducting this research was challenging at times. Collecting and analyzing data after a traumatic event required sensitivity and respect for each mother’s journey. However, it was inspiring to see how many participants were willing to open up and share their experiences, even after what they had been through. Their stories were a reminder of how crucial support systems are, especially for those balancing the demands of family life.
Jennifer Budman
Hebrew University of Jerusalem
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Participation in health-promoting activities of mothers of young children post-man-made disaster caused by terrorist attack., Psychological Trauma Theory Research Practice and Policy, November 2024, American Psychological Association (APA),
DOI: 10.1037/tra0001824.
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