School-Based Post-Flood Screening and Evaluation: Findings and Challenges in One Community

This study examined a school-based screening and evaluation project to identify children with adjustment problems following a natural disaster. Six hundred twelve children ranging in age from 5 to 19 were screened in the aftermath of a hurricane and extensive flooding. Two hundred forty-eight children and 86 parents participated in the evaluation phase of the project, although few completed all measures. Severity of exposure alone was a limited predictor of child adjustment. However, screening for depression increased prediction of adjustment, and screening for traumatic stress symptoms helped predict parent-reported child PTSD. Barriers to conducting a school-based screening are discussed.