Abstract:
Provides a guide to research on the effects of indirect stressors in civil unrest on children. The study was undertaken to serve as a resource for researchers working in this field in South Africa. The research method involves the compilation and discussion of literature which has emerged from within the topic and supplementary literature from other areas of child psychology. This literature is examined critically within the framework of a stress theory which emphasises stress as a product of its social context. The scope of discussion has been limited to the effects of indirect stressors, such as the detention of a family member, witnessing violence and participation in violence, on children. The results of research findings are discussed in three broad areas: the individual psychological effects of specific stressors, vulnerability and protective factors which mediate the stressful experience and suggestions for researching stress as a social phenomenon. Suggestions are made for broad areas in this field requiring further research. A case study is used to illustrate some of the theoretical themes of the thesis.
