Potentially Traumatic Events and Coping Among Youth in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (1 CE)

Number of Credits: 1

This course is for:  Clinical Psychologists, Counselors, and LMFTs

Course By: Tracey Thomas, PsyD

Content By: Cherewick, M., Doocy, S., Tol, W., Burnham, G., & Glass, N. (2018). Potentially traumatic events, coping strategies and associations with mental health and well-being measures among conflict-affected youth in Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. Global Health Research and Policy, 1(8). 1-18. https://doi.org/10.1186/s41256-016-0007-6

Course Description: Many youths residing in a conflictual environment are exposed to various potentially traumatic events (pTEs). pTEs may negatively impact the youths' mental and physical being. In the presented study, researchers measured pTEs, psychological distress and well-being, and coping skills associated with psychological symptoms through survey instruments and explanatory factors. The participants utilized problem-oriented, emotion-focused, avoidance, or faith-based strategies as a way to cope. The results of the study showed coping flexibility techniques were most effective in improving mental health and well-being. The study is most beneficial for skilled workers working with pTE youths to develop effective coping strategies and interventions.

Learning Objectives:

1. Identify the 4 aims of the study affiliated with pTE and coping.
2. Evaluate the data and results, including the 9 presented tables, and identify 2 key findings of the research.
3. Identify 3 limitations of the study and consider the implications of these limitations in the context of future research in this area.

Course Outline:

1. Read and understand the article, Potentially traumatic events, coping strategies and associations with mental health and well-being measures among conflict-affected youth in Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo
2. Review the Course Description and Learning Objectives
3. Work through the post-test questions; the answers to the questions should be derived from the respective article
4. Review the article for further clarification, if needed.

Return to the article for clarification regarding youth coping strategies and interventions in a conflictual environment, or for any missed questions