Psychosocial Support

Mental health and psychosocial well being among children in severe food shortage situation  (World Health Organization, 2006)

This document highlights issues surrounding the harmful combination of malnutrition and inadequate psychosocial stimulation. Improving both nutritional status and stimulation has an added impact on a child's development and recovery. This document asserts that both nutritional and psychosocial interventions should be integrated within intervention services.

Assessing Afghan children's psychosocial well-being: A multi-modal study of intervention outcomes
(Christian Children's Fund ; Oxford University ; Queen Margaret University College, 2005)

The following research evaluated an intervention program implemented by Child Fund Afghanistan (CFA), the Afghan branch of CCF, in the Northern Afghanistan provinces of Kunduz and Takhar. The objectives of the program, which was part of a wider consortium program that involved International Rescue Committee and Save the Children/US, were: (1) to identify and reduce threats to the protection and psychosocial well-being of Afghan children and youth in targeted communities; (2) to increase engagement of Afghan children, particularly young children and vulnerable groups with their environment in safe, integrated, developmentally appropriate ways; and (3) to increase positive engagement of and developmental learning opportunities for Afghan youth. The program uses a capacity building strategy of supporting and working in partnership with local groups such as youth groups and women’s groups that assist children.

Effective disaster-relief for the most vulnerable (Plan International, 2005)

How effective are measures taken to mitigate the impact of direct experience of armed conflict on the psychosocial and cognitive development of children aged 0-8?  (EPPI-Centre, 2005)

This report examines research that assesses the effectiveness of measures taken to mitigate the impact of direct experience of armed conflict on the psychosocial and cognitive development of children aged 0–8. As well as informing practice in relation to children affected by armed conflict, this review is also relevant to children experiencing other stressors, such as AIDS, environmental disasters or sexual exploitation.

Trauma and Psychosocial Well-Being of Children Under the Age of Six in Areas of Conflict  (Kleene, J., 2005.  Prepared for Save the Children)

This annotated bibliography includes background documents and research on issues of trauma and the psychosocial well-being of children (0-6 years) in areas of conflict. 

Psychosocial interventions: Evaluation of Unicef supported projects (1999- 2001) (Melville, A., & Scarlet, F., 2003)

This evaluation assessed the design, implementation, and impact of two major psychosocial projects sponsored by UNICEF Indonesia (October 1999-2001): 1) The ’Psychosocial Help Training Project’ aimed to support teachers and counsellors in providing basic psychosocial assistance to children throughout West Timor and other conflict zones within Indonesia, and 2) The EMDR project trained professionals and paraprofessionals in the use of Eye Movement and Desensitisation Reprocessing. The project aimed to treat the effects of trauma, and as such, was a treatment intervention.

Helping traumatized children: A brief overview for caregivers  (Perry, B.D., 2002)

This guide highlights key issues regarding children's reactions following the aftermath of a traumatic experience. It provides general principles toward understanding children and the impact of trauma. The information is beneficial for families, caregivers, and other professionals working with children experiencing traumatic events.

Helping children cope with the stresses of war: A manual for parents and teachers (Macksoud, M., 2000).

This manual is for the use of parents and teachers in communities where children are continously being exposed to the stresses of war and violence. This resource will provide families and those working with these children with simple and practical advice.