The Impact of the September 11, 2001, Attacks on the Well-Being of Arab Americans in New York City

In this exploratory study, eight focus groups were conducted, utilizing 83 participants. A structured, but flexible, interview guided by trauma theory was designed to solicit perspectives on the impact of the September 11, 2001, attacks on the Arab American community in New York City. Participants identified several common areas of concern, including fear of hate crimes, anxiety about the future, threats to their safety, loss of community, isolation, and stigmatization. Barriers to services and current mental health needs were discussed. The results of this study may assist social workers and clinical psychologists in developing targeted mental health initiatives using community outreach strategies. This approach may enhance recovery and healing at the individual and community levels, particularly if services are provided by those who are culturally and linguistically competent and sensitive.