The Dart Center for Journalism & Trauma

A resource center and program developer for students, educators, journalists and news organizations interested in the intersection of journalism and trauma issues.

Note from the editor of the Dart Center:
Journalists are first-responders today in New York, Washington, and Pittsburgh. They, like aid and emergency workers, have witnessed scenes and situations that seer and assault their emotional systems.

The Dart Center was established to provide information and support for journalists who serve us at these times. As events unfold, we will continue to update our site to assist news organizations, journalists and teachers.

News media play a crucial role in helping the public respond to this tragedy. Prof. Elana Newman, University of Tulsa psychologist, urges parents, teachers and other caregivers to be honest and direct with children: "Explain that we don't know who is behind the attacks, but assure them that you will try to keep them as safe as possible."

Mental-health organizations across the nation caution us that children and vulnerable adults -- especially who have suffered previous traumatic experiences -- may be unusually troubled over the next few days. Be sensitive to this response in yourselves and others. Exposure to media coverage of the crashes and their aftermath will preoccupy many of us, but may be especially unsettling to some people.

Dart Center for Journalism and Trauma
University of Washington School of Communications
102 Communications, Box 353740
Seattle,WA 98195-3740
Phone: 206-616-3223
Fax: 206-543-9285
E-mail: uwdart@u.washington.edu
http://www.dartcenter.org/