When a child's behavior results in the injury to someone else, the guilt can be sizeable. This page contains information on how to interact with a child who has hurt someone else. We've also included how to look for signs of trauma in a child and service providers that can help a child through this time.

Home | Other Accidents

Few communities have not experienced senseless crimes, and media coverage of tragedies perpetuates widespread grief. Accidental shootings are clearly one of the most senseless acts. Unfortunately, children are fascinated with guns. This heightened interest may come from the sense of power that these weapons offer, or as a result of the "romanticized" way in which the media and video games portray guns and violence. Whatever the reason for this keen interest, it must be understood that this fascination exists and to take actions to avoid these accidents. If there's a gun in your home, make sure it is unloaded, locked, and safely stored where kids cannot find it, and that the ammunition is locked up and hidden separately. The results of not taking these precautions are nearly incalculable.

	Signs & Symptoms

• Sleeplessness, nightmares
• Extreme feelings of guilt
• Being preoccupied with the traumatic event
• Experiencing intense survivor guilt
• Feeling numb or detached
• Having difficulty concentrating
• Feeling helpless or "out of control"
• Inability to get along with others, particularly in close relationships
• Paranoia and distrust
• Unwillingness to discuss or revisit in any way the site of the trauma
• Persistent, intense fear and anxiety
• Feeling easily irritated or agitated
• No longer finding pleasure in previously enjoyable activities
• Physical symptoms such as headache, gastrointestinal distress, or dizziness
• Suicidal thoughts, plans, or gestures