Date of Conferral
2015
Degree
Ph.D.
School
Counselor Education and Supervision
Advisor
Donna Sheperis
Abstract
Hurricane Katrina devastated the U.S. Gulf Coast and subjected the city of New Orleans to disastrous flooding, which resulted in numerous after effects that impacted the children and adolescents of the city. The disaster contributed to high levels of stress, increased risk of psychological disorders, and was associated with an increased percentage of New Orleans children presenting symptoms of post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). To help address these problems associated with hurricanes and other disasters, the current study investigated how age, gender, race, and pre-existing conditions increased or decreased the likelihood of a child being diagnosed with PTSD following Hurricane Katrina. A binary logistical regression was utilized in this study. Bronfenbrenner's ecological systems theory formed the framework of the study, based on the functionality of an individual's life and development in his or her environment. The findings revealed age to be a significant predictor on PTSD. As children's ages increase, the likelihood of having PTSD increases. The result can promote positive social change by providing mental healthcare professionals with comprehensive information regarding possible health risk of developing PTSD and the possibilities of getting treatment with evidence-based therapeutic support, medicine, and psychotherapy.
Recommended Citation
Airhia, Earnest E., "Predicting Post Traumatic Stress Disorder in Children with Prior Mental Health Diagnoses" (2015). Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies. 564.
https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/564
