PBB MISSION AWARDS - 2008
TSUNAMI THREATS: AN EDUCATIONAL VIDEO PROGRAM
(THAILAND)
DAVID
SATTLER
, WESTERN WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY, USA
Dr. Sattler has worked in Thailand helping lessen the
psychological impact of the 2006 tsunami and inform citizens about
preparedness activities. Dr. Sattler’s Mission Award allowed
him to produce an educational video in English and Thai about tsunami
threats. Designed for use in schools and community organizations, the
25-minute video details the new tsunami warning system and explains the
warning signs of a tsunami and how to evacuate if a tsunami descends
upon land. By providing information about the warning signs of tsunamis
and the support that Thailand received from the international
community, this video was designed to reduce fear and increase feelings
of support in Thai children. Upon the video’s
completion in September 2008, Dr. Sattler conducted a study in Thailand
looking at the efficacy of the video when viewed by community members
along the Indian Ocean, which found that this video did increase
feelings of pride and information about tsunami threats. Dr. Sattler is
currently completing an article about his findings for submission to a
peer-reviewed journal. Visit the International
Tsunami Museum for more information.
TRANSCULTURAL
USE OF TRAUMA-FOCUSED COGNITIVE BEHAVIORAL THERAPY IN A CAMBODIAN
VILLAGE: A FEASIBILITY STUDY AND TRIAL IMPLEMENTATION
(CAMBODIA)
DONALD
COHON
, EDGEWOOD CENTER FOR CHILDREN AND
FAMILIES, USA
Dr. Cohon has worked in Cambodia with people suffering
psychological trauma as a result of the wars in the region. This
project involves the development of culturally appropriate therapeutic
interventions based on Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy to address the
psychosocial needs of Cambodians. Dr. Cohon’s work found that
rural Cambodians were deeply focused on practical issues surrounding
survival—food, water and healthcare access—and did
not uncover deep focus on the lasting trauma from the Khmer Rouge and
Cambodian history.