Responses to Question Student 1 Hello class, This week we learn about the effects of terrorism in the psychological realm of disaster. I found it very interesting the way that Hoffman and Kruczek (2011) analyzed the effects of September 11, 2001 on the population from a third-party stand point. It is understandable to assume that those who were directly involved in the rescue efforts or within the city when it happened would be effected. However, although I personally felt affected by the incident, growing up in Missouri, I never considered the psychological effect it had on me or the rest of the country. I would venture to say that many, if not all, of those who joined the military from 2001-2010 did so because of September 11, 2001. Though I could not begin to speculate the number of those who experienced some form of PTSD, but I would say that the frequency of social anxiety increased dramatically after that event. Many schools closed, and large events were cancelled for fear of another attack. Even now, nearly twenty years later, the attacks of 9/11 are a stark reminder that a terrorist attack could occur without warning. Aside from terrorism, workplace violence and mass shootings have become rampant throughout the media. This past Friday marked one of the worst mass shootings in Virginia history. It is still in all forms of media from television to radio. The city of Virginia Beach and the state are still in shock from the events. I believe with the advent of the information age, and social media, images of terrorist, mass shootings, and workplace violence are the new normal. It is very sad to say that. I can say from the standpoint of a father that my children are greatly affected by what they watch on television. My son, in particular, has developed a mild form of anxiety when it comes to these events. Any time he sees one of these events, or even a natural disaster on television, he fears that that event is going to happen to our family. This has caused some issues with him being able to remain calm in uncertain environments. John References Hoffman, M. A. & Kruzcek, T. (2011). A bioecological model of mass trauma: Individual, community, and societal effects. The Counseling Psychologist, 39(8), 1087-1127. Student 2 September 11th is an event that will never be forgotten, when it comes to terrorism there is so many forms that can affect all who are involved directly or indirectly. The media exposure that terrorist attacks get, I feel, are necessary. Not just to get the information out in an ordered fashion to the public but also to help people get an understanding of what is going on without total speculation from rumors or outside sources. Images and videos should not be considered a new normal for the media or social media, but they seem to be in todays society. Images seem to necessary because people are so curious as to what happened or even sometimes if it happened. So, images can help should the real damage and sometimes the story of what is going on. I do think that psychosocial disorders can form from indirect exposures to terrorist attacks. Watching events happen in other states and/or countries can cause people fear of it happening where they are living. 9/11 happened on American soil, it probably caused a huge impact on those where living in heavily populated or popular areas. PTSD can form in individuals for many reasons. Which I think even indirect exposure to terrorist attacks can be one of them. When my family and I move to Missouri I developed severe anxiety and massive fear of storms such as tornadoes. I’ve never been in a severe storm since living here but it doesn’t stop me from sleeping in my basement with my children when we are in a thunder storm and constantly checking the radar to see when it is set to pass. The thought of it happening scares me to the point where I panic so I do believe that indirect exposure effects those who fear it happening to themselves. Trauma can happen even when people experience regular man-made disaster or just life events that are perfectly normal. -Kamber Student 3 Acts of terrorism are innately horrendous and consequential to all aspects of society. The contemporary access to mass media's many platforms allows for the spread of information, true or false, including the effects of such material. As incredible as media and the internet is in educating and connecting people around the world, its harsher result of psychological impact should be considered more heavily. The exposure to terrorist activities and other trauma or disaster afforded by mass media is our new normal. How we choose to prepare and handle this exposure mentally is up to us for active coping. There are significant concerns regarding adverse reactions to indirect exposure to terrorist events. From personal experience, the images and videos of the 9/11 attacks on the U.S., humanitarian crises from the conflicts in Yemen, even images of limbless victims from the Boston Marathon bombing was traumatizing enough to make me recollect on these images before wanting to go to a large public gathering such as a marathon or government-sponsored activity. Unbeknownst to our conscious, schemata's group all of our thoughts and experiences to help us more quickly process incoming information. It would take incredible psychological therapy or brain trauma to change this, so, if we are going to live in a world where technological advancements and human despair continue than we must accept this as reality and respond appropriately. It is inevitable that we will lose a loved one or perhaps experience catastrophe but recognizing the severity of encountering indirect exposure can be more prominent as its effects are more "difficult to assess and are often underestimated" (Hoffman & Kruczek, 2011, p.3). The psychological impact that comes with chronic stress, loss of social networks, feeling of injustice and physical illness as a secondary reaction to stress are all severe indirect effects of trauma (Hoffman & Kruczek, 2011). Moreover, because special populations are more susceptible to the impact of a disaster, media exposure should be limited (Greene, 2019). Their vulnerability in contrast with neurotypical adults requires this, but I do not believe it is what is in the best interest of their counterparts. In my opinion, as a society, we should hold our public figures, including government officials and news broadcasters, more accountable to their presentation of issues/news. Many communities of people are negligent in information literacy skills and accept the first presentation of a report as the whole truth, without considering human bias, possible falsified facts, and the overall totality of the situation. As humans, we all perceive experiences in our own way with the use of schemas and natural concepts. These cognitive tools are individualized with our unique perceptions of our experiences. It is crucial when aiming to approach a topic with the least amount of bias that we remain mindful that our thoughts are formed with information from our OWN emotions, memories, and environment. Therefore, every individual will handle presented information, such as an act of terrorism, differently. Just as our lesson discussed how critical it is to treat a survivor of disaster, terror or otherwise, with an individual plan, we must also not try to manage conditions in one specific way. All humans should demand transparency for the best outcome of their biopsychosocial consequences of disasters. Over time, this can help victims cope with their vulnerability and psychological fragility by accepting the nature of our modern-day society and its possibilities. Despite my personal beliefs that additional acts of altruism can better the world for us all, I am entirely aware of the many harsh realities we all face in contemporary society. But, to tackle this issue, I firmly believe that we should all approach life with more openness and thoughtfulness to other's opinions. Recent acts of domestic terrorism and tragedy display individuals who feel most alone in this world and unable to find social acceptance, or, even merely social support, are those who commit these atrocities. Since we have continuously learned the imperative for victims to see immediate and recurring social support following a disaster, then maybe we should contrarily focus more on nurturing social support to prevent man-made disasters, such as terrorism. Terror Management Theory further adds to this point by expressing individuals with low self-esteem, or those who perceive themselves as having little value to their community, respond to heightened emotions of anxiety and depression might consider life invaluable (Greene, 2019). The question remains-- What daily decisions can we make to be more inclusive to other communities and individuals so that we can foster social acceptance and promote the education of our psyche, therefore, to prevent terrorism or at least provide us all the tools to manage media exposure to disaster better? Best, Paige References Greene, Tamey. (2019). "Psych431 Lesson 45: Terrorism and the Psychological Effects of Terror Events as Disasters." APUS. Accessed May 28, 2019. Hoffman, M. & Kruczek, T., (2011). "A Biological Model of Mass Trauma: Individual, Community, and Societal Effects." Retrieved June 04, 2019, from APUS. Professor Question (Only Short Response). Responses to Question Student 1 Hello Class, My hometown would be New Orleans, Louisiana. Most of you already know what the number one major hazard is to us. The three hazards that are the most predominant are hurricanes, flooding, and tornados. For hurricanes, one of the hazard adjustment I would recommend is all homes structures built below or at sea level should be raised or placed on stilts. Like our neighboring state Mississippi, I would recommend the construction of sea walls reinforced with concrete. A sea wall is a structure separating land and water areas. It is designed to prevent coastal erosion and other damage due to wave action and storm surge, such as flooding. Seawalls are normally very massive structures because they are designed to resist the full force of waves and storm surge (MEDUS, pg. 15). Hurricanes bring about several other hazards such as storm surges, high winds and flooding. The Flood Insurance Study (FIS) indicates that the principal sources of flooding in the Parish are rainfall ponding, or hurricane or tropical storm surges from Lake Pontchartrain and Lake Borgne. Topography and ground cover are also contributing factors for floods. (pg. 86). One of the hazard adjustments for flooding are pumping stations strategically placed around New Orleans. These pumping stations have electric motors and are capable of operating off diesel fuel as well. In addition, these pumping stations can pump 30 billion gallons of water per day. Not to mention there are several levees, drainage canals along with the above-mentioned storm water pumps. For tornado hazards, I would highly recommend that New Orleans continue adopting the International Building Code (IBC), which mandates all new structures be able to withstand winds up to 140 mph. In addition, I would highly suggest the building of hurricane proof roofs. These roofs are equipped with specialized clamps that prevent them from being torn off and utilized as projectiles. Tornadoes are classified on the Enhanced Fujita Scale (EF-Scale), rating from EF0 to EF5 being the highest. If New Orleans adopts the IBC all structures would be able to withstand EF3 rated tornados. Spencer Works Cited: Lindell, K., Prater, C., Perry, R. 2014. Fundamentals of Emergency Management. Retrieved from https://training.fema.gov/hiedu/aemrc/booksdownload/fem/ MEDUS. (2011) Marine Engineering Division of University of Salerno. Retrieved online 10 April 2011 from: http://www.diciv.unisa.it/docenti/dentale/medus_.php (MEDUS) Student 2 In Phoenix, Arizona, there are several hazards that the local population should be cognizant of and prepare for. Three notable hazards in the Phoenix area include extreme heat, flash floods, and dust storms. It is no secret that Phoenix is known for having extremely high temperatures during the summertime, hence why Arizona's NBA and WNBA teams are called the Phoenix Suns and the Phoenix Mercury. However, heaps of locals continue to suffer and in some cases even die from the extreme heat. During the summer temperatures can get as high as 120°F and "some areas of the state are exposed to more than 126 days of extreme heat over 100°F” (AZDHS, 2019). One significant adjustment that I would recommend for this type of hazard would be educating locals. People should understand the severity of extreme heat, learn proper hydration, and how to look out for and treat heat illnesses. Additional recommended adjustments include installing suitable water fountains and misters at local hiking trails and other places where people tend to partake in physical activities. Beyond extreme heat during the summer days, flash floods and dust storms become hazardous as summer transitions into the monsoon season. In the midst of the monsoon season flash floods often take place in the Phoenix area. These rapid floods can develop in a matter of hours or even minutes and they are generally marked by excessive rain, strong winds, and levee failures. Adjustments for this hazard can involve creating more effective levees, reinforcing buildings, as well as educating the public to avoid roads, do not cross moving water, and avoid being near power lines. Dust storms also referred to as haboobs, are another hazard that locals should be prepared for. Dust storms typically develop during the monsoon season and are characterized by a wall of dust stretching several miles wide and approximately a mile high, making its way through the Phoenix at high speeds. These dust storms create power outages, damage from flying objects, low visibility, and affect normal breathing functions. Recommended adjustments for dust storms include limiting threats of flying objects and educating the public on how to avoid breathing in dust, protect eyesight, what items to have during power outages, and what precautions to take when driving. Demonte References: Arizona Department of Health Services. (2019). Extreme Weather & Public Health. Retrieved from https://www.azdhs.gov/preparedness/epidemiology-disease-control/extremeweather/monsoon-safety/index.php#monsoon-home National Weather Service. (2019). National Weather Service Safety Tips. Retrieved from https://www.weather.gov/safety/ Responses to Question Student 1 Hello Class, My hometown would be New Orleans, Louisiana. Most of you already know what the number one major hazard is to us. The three hazards that are the most predominant are hurricanes, flooding, and tornados. For hurricanes, one of the hazard adjustment I would recommend is all homes structures built below or at sea level should be raised or placed on stilts. Like our neighboring state Mississippi, I would recommend the construction of sea walls reinforced with concrete. A sea wall is a structure separating land and water areas. It is designed to prevent coastal erosion and other damage due to wave action and storm surge, such as flooding. Seawalls are normally very massive structures because they are designed to resist the full force of waves and storm surge (MEDUS, pg. 15). Hurricanes bring about several other hazards such as storm surges, high winds and flooding. The Flood Insurance Study (FIS) indicates that the principal sources of flooding in the Parish are rainfall ponding, or hurricane or tropical storm surges from Lake Pontchartrain and Lake Borgne. Topography and ground cover are also contributing factors for floods. (pg. 86). One of the hazard adjustments for flooding are pumping stations strategically placed around New Orleans. These pumping stations have electric motors and are capable of operating off diesel fuel as well. In addition, these pumping stations can pump 30 billion gallons of water per day. Not to mention there are several levees, drainage canals along with the above-mentioned storm water pumps. For tornado hazards, I would highly recommend that New Orleans continue adopting the International Building Code (IBC), which mandates all new structures be able to withstand winds up to 140 mph. In addition, I would highly suggest the building of hurricane proof roofs. These roofs are equipped with specialized clamps that prevent them from being torn off and utilized as projectiles. Tornadoes are classified on the Enhanced Fujita Scale (EF-Scale), rating from EF0 to EF5 being the highest. If New Orleans adopts the IBC all structures would be able to withstand EF3 rated tornados. Spencer Works Cited: Lindell, K., Prater, C., Perry, R. 2014. Fundamentals of Emergency Management. Retrieved from https://training.fema.gov/hiedu/aemrc/booksdownload/fem/ MEDUS. (2011) Marine Engineering Division of University of Salerno. Retrieved online 10 April 2011 from: http://www.diciv.unisa.it/docenti/dentale/medus_.php (MEDUS) Student 2 In Phoenix, Arizona, there are several hazards that the local population should be cognizant of and prepare for. Three notable hazards in the Phoenix area include extreme heat, flash floods, and dust storms. It is no secret that Phoenix is known for having extremely high temperatures during the summertime, hence why Arizona's NBA and WNBA teams are called the Phoenix Suns and the Phoenix Mercury. However, heaps of locals continue to suffer and in some cases even die from the extreme heat. During the summer temperatures can get as high as 120°F and "some areas of the state are exposed to more than 126 days of extreme heat over 100°F” (AZDHS, 2019). One significant adjustment that I would recommend for this type of hazard would be educating locals. People should understand the severity of extreme heat, learn proper hydration, and how to look out for and treat heat illnesses. Additional recommended adjustments include installing suitable water fountains and misters at local hiking trails and other places where people tend to partake in physical activities. Beyond extreme heat during the summer days, flash floods and dust storms become hazardous as summer transitions into the monsoon season. In the midst of the monsoon season flash floods often take place in the Phoenix area. These rapid floods can develop in a matter of hours or even minutes and they are generally marked by excessive rain, strong winds, and levee failures. Adjustments for this hazard can involve creating more effective levees, reinforcing buildings, as well as educating the public to avoid roads, do not cross moving water, and avoid being near power lines. Dust storms also referred to as haboobs, are another hazard that locals should be prepared for. Dust storms typically develop during the monsoon season and are characterized by a wall of dust stretching several miles wide and approximately a mile high, making its way through the Phoenix at high speeds. These dust storms create power outages, damage from flying objects, low visibility, and affect normal breathing functions. Recommended adjustments for dust storms include limiting threats of flying objects and educating the public on how to avoid breathing in dust, protect eyesight, what items to have during power outages, and what precautions to take when driving. Demonte References: Arizona Department of Health Services. (2019). Extreme Weather & Public Health. Retrieved from https://www.azdhs.gov/preparedness/epidemiology-disease-control/extremeweather/monsoon-safety/index.php#monsoon-home National Weather Service. (2019). National Weather Service Safety Tips. Retrieved from https://www.weather.gov/safety/
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