Summary - Longitudinal Research on Stress in Humanitarian
Aid Workers CDC – Antares
Foundation
The rise in low-intensity conflicts in the
1990's found humanitarian aid workers frequently in the line
of fire that affected
the functioning and productivity of agency programs. In addition,
the recent increased risk of terrorist activities in politically
volatile emergencies contributes to the need for security
and support of staff.
To date, there is a serious lack
of studies about the consequences of extreme stress to relief
workers, what agencies can do to appropriately manage and
support staff, and worker productivity (McCall & Salama,
BMJ, 1999).
Only a longitudinal approach can establish
predictive relationships between personal, organizational
and duty-related
stressors, and mental health and organizational productivity.
CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta,
USA) have in collaboration with the Antares Foundation
(Amsterdam, The Netherlands), initiated a longitudinal study
on stress
in humanitarian aid workers.
Participating institutions
are: the University of Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Fuller
Theological
Seminary, CA, USA; Pepperdine University, CA, USA; Tulane
University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine,
LA, USA and Mount Sinai School of Medicine, USA.
1. Study Goals and Objectives
Study Goal: To provide in depth and scientifically valid
information regarding mental health status of humanitarian
workers working under stress and in hardship.
Specific Objectives:
To identify aspects of work associated with elevated
risk of poor mental health and burnout in aid workers.
To identify the risk and resilience factors moderating
the impact of such stressors on or staff functioning.
To provide recommendations for selection, training, and
management of aid workers, and effective intervention
for stressed individuals.
2. Time-frame of Assessment
The recruitment of NGOs and enrolment of respondents
started in early 2005. For the respondents there will
be 3 times
of assessment; the first before deployment, the second
directly after deployment and the third 3 to 6 months
after the end
of the contract. The final report of the research is
planned to be ready in 2008.
3. Participation of Non Governmental Organizations
A minimum of 5 and a maximum of 15 NGOs have been selected
to participate in the research. Participating NGOs are
required to meet the following criteria:
In existence for 5 or more years
Have an established record of international funding
Operate with a humanitarian imperative, operating in
at-risk countries (e.g. including low-income, post-conflict,
and
chronically stressful environments)
Deploy 20 or more staff per year
Willing to adhere to procedures as approved by the CDC
Institutional Review Board for the protection of human
subjects
At the conclusion of the study the participating agencies
will receive a summary of the findings and recommendations
for best practices associated with minimizing stress
in humanitarian aid workers. This may lead to improved
mental
health protocols,
training and improved mental health and organizational
outcomes.
Download frequently asked Questions & Answers
For more information please contact antares@antaresfoundation.org
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