Method: This study uses secondary, longitudinal data from a
previous 1996-1999 research project conducted by Dr. Robert Kohn
of Brown University Medical Center. Data analysis included
descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis. Data
was analyzed at 3 months and 2 years post-disaster. A
comparative analysis of trauma reactions in children and
families in low impact vs. high impact zones was conducted as
well as comparisons between families residing in emergency
shelter or alternative housing arrangements vs. their own homes
3 months post-disaster and 2 years later. The study sample
consisted of 1100 children and families randomly selected and
surveyed 3 months and 2 years post 1996 Hurricane Mitch.
Retention was 80% of those sampled 3 months post-disaster. Four
key survey instruments used in the data analysis included the
Impact of Events Scale, the Child and Adult Kish Scale, Self-
Report Questionnaire (SRQ), and MASC (coping scale). Post-trauma
reactions in children and parents is defined as symp