Anxiety symptoms among children after the Wenchuan earthquake in China.

Authors :: Xu J
Xie L
Li B
Li N
Yang Y
Source :: Nordic journal of psychiatry [Nord J Psychiatry] 2012 Oct; Vol. 66 (5), pp. 349-54. Date of Electronic Publication: 2012 Jan 30.
Publication Year :: 2012
Abstract: Aim: We explore the prevalence and risk factors of anxiety symptoms among child survivors after an earthquake.<br />Methods: This study was conducted among children aged 7-15 years in Qingchuan County 1 year after the Wenchuan earthquake. Trauma experiences and anxiety symptoms were assessed with a modified earthquake exposure scale and the Revised Children's Manifest Anxiety Scale. A total of 21,652 children participated in the survey.<br />Results: The prevalence rate of anxiety symptoms was 18.9% among all participants. In a multivariate analysis, anxiety symptoms were significantly associated with gender, age, cultural differences and earthquake exposure. Anxiety symptoms were common among children in the Wenchuan earthquake area 1 year after the earthquake. Gender, age, culture and traumatic experiences from the earthquake may significantly influence anxiety symptoms among children.<br />Discussion: This study provides baseline data about psychological outcomes among child survivors following an earthquake.