Educational consequences of loss and trauma

Many children are deeply affected by loss and trauma. Although some studies mention the educational consequences of such situations, this is an aspect often overlooked. Results from different studies show that survivors of disasters, violence and death tend to be more absent from school and some drop out of school prematurely. In addition, school performance may deteriorate, especially in school subjects high in attentional demand. The processes behind the decline in school performance are still largely unknown but are believed to stem from such matters as a loss of motivation, intrusive material and cognitive processing tying up attentional resources, and a lowering of cognitive pace due to depression. Lack of perceived support from parents, classmates and teachers have shown an association with more post-traumatic stress and lower school performance. In addition to having clear procedures for helping children and adolescents with the psychosocial consequences following trauma and loss, it is recommended that more attention is given to the educational challenges that such an event represents. Educational strategies and programmes that can assist children and adolescents must be developed.