Talking to Children about Terrorism

Abstract

Terrorism essentially consists of the systematic or planned use of violence or the threat of violence toward civilians, groups or societies with the intent to kill, injure, harm, coerce or intimidate through fear and terror, often in pursuit of political or ideological goals. Although terrorism has a long history, terrorism in the world today appears to have increased in recent decades in its frequency, sophistication and impact. Media coverage of terrorist events has increased significantly and public responses from government and other entities have expanded, so children are more likely not only to be exposed to terrorism but to experience ongoing awareness of its effects.