TLC Network: Toxic Stress and Trauma in Students and Families from Conflict Zone Countries: Working with Traumatised Refugees in Schools

Description

Abstract:
This presentation describes briefly the context and experiences of refugee parents and children in conflict zones that produce the condition of toxic stress and trauma recognised by the UN and NGOs working in these countries. The focus is mostly on the experience of Syrians whose plight has been well-documented and who have migrated to Scotland in addition to many other countries. The presentation covers five topics: 1) what is toxic stress and trauma compared with standard trauma; 2) what causes toxic stress and trauma; 3) how to recognise symptoms; 4) the importance of cultural and family characteristics of many non-Western cultures including Syrian; 5) what are recommended actions on the part of school staff, and those who teach and research in the university where the topic of refugee students with toxic trauma is important. A number of NGOs, scholars, mental health care professionals and educational professionals have recommended approaches and activities to contribute to the healing process and help create a sense of safety and belonging that are useful to consider and modify for the Scottish context. The session will be interactive and approach the topic as a problem solving one to identify approaches that would be relevant and useful here.

Period	16 Jun 2021
Event type	Seminar
Degree of Recognition	International