Studying the Situations Faced by Children Due to the Pandemic and War

Approximately 15 psychologists, with the help of international experts, are becoming familiar with the latest methods aimed at helping children and adolescents escape from psychological distress.

Given the situations arising from consecutive events in the country—the pandemic and the 44-day war—psychologists are now examining how children and adolescents cope with their family's grief, the anxieties, hopelessness, and losses of adults.

The results of the study will be made public in a year when a comprehensive report on the scientific research conducted by the professional group will be published.

Experts in the field currently lack substantial experience in studying the impacts on children’s health and stress following disasters and wars. Psychologists in Armenia are developing a comprehensive methodology for psychological support for children and adolescents to help families in extraordinary or critical situations enhance children's resilience.

According to specialists, psychological impacts are long-term and intergenerational. Psychologists emphasize the need to employ methods so that information about family tragedies is conveyed to children with care, ensuring that it does not leave severe repercussions later on.

“While there may be no immediate effect on the child, the random intergenerational family stories can abruptly impact their psychological state, and it takes family knowledge and wisdom to convey even sad family stories to the child properly. Many children affected by the aftermath of the Nagorno-Karabakh war, as well as those who suffer from domestic violence, face losses and mourning. With this methodology, we can cultivate a degree of resilience in them that will help them move forward, be optimistic, and be ready to confront new challenges,” states Armine Gmyur, chairperson of the board of trustees of the “Aravamanuk” psychosocial foundation.

An Italian expert has shared his professional skills with psychologists from various regions of Armenia. The methods are new for local psychologists and will become applicable in their work with children and their families in the future.

Child psychology expert Francesca Giordano arrived in Gyumri from Milan. During the past 12 years, she has conducted research aimed at enhancing the resilience of children in difficult and challenging situations. While working with Armenian colleagues, she aims not only to share her knowledge but also to familiarize herself with local experiences.

“I believe that Armenian culture has so many symbols and elements for finding meaning in life, which provide the strength to motivate, live, and overcome any adversities. This is my first time in Armenia, and from the very first moment, I’ve realized that Armenians have a significant potential to withstand challenges,” emphasizes child psychology expert Francesca Giordano.

By the end of the year, the results of the psychologists' research will serve as the foundation for new scientific studies, and a new guideline will be prepared for specialists working to help children overcome existing stress situations.