Natural disasters don’t just devastate our environment; they wreak havoc on our mental health as well. In 2005 Hurricane Katrina ravaged New Orleans. Psychologist Jean Rhodes studied the long-term mental health effects and health outcomes of young women living in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina. However, Rhodes discovered something interesting after looking at survivors years after the trauma: many women gained strength despite the hardships--a phenomenon called post-traumatic growth. Listen to learn more about Hurricane Katrina and its destruction as well as the merits of being strengthened by adversity.
Story Length: 5:10
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09/27/2015
https://app.listenwise.com/students/lessons/492-post-traumatic-growth
What is the purpose of Professor Rhodes’ study?
According to the audio story, what are two ways of looking at how we experience trauma and deal with its stressors? How was this shown in the story?
What facts support that women in New Orleans gained strength after Hurricane Katrina? How did they do this?
How could research similar to Professor Rhodes’ study be used to help solve other mental health problems?
What is the importance of acknowledging and understanding post-traumatic growth? Why is the message important?
