Primary prevention in aircraft disasters: Integrating research and practice.

The integration of rigorous scientific research with program development and implementation is essential in new areas of psychological practice, such as primary prevention for aircraft disaster victims. Research on primary prevention for air disasters can provide practical information on how to help victims cope with traumatic events, as well as contributing to theoretical understanding about the role of trauma in the development of psychopathology. Both epidemiological research on the mental health effects of disasters and practitioner experiences are used in this article to identify high risk groups and types of primary prevention interventions for air disasters. Practical suggestions are provided for research in this area, including discussions of design issues, access to victims, selection of instruments, and issues involved in obtaining funding. Implications of media attention and litigation also are considered. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)