Linking Human Systems: Strengthening Individuals, Families, And Communities in the Wake of Mass Trauma

Abstract

This article presents an overview of the philosophy and practical principles underlying the Linking Human Systems Approach based on the theory of resilience in individuals, families, and communities facing crisis, trauma, and disaster. The Link Approach focuses on tapping into the inherent strength of individuals and their families and emphasizes resilience rather than vulnerability. It has been successfully used in combating critical public health problems, such as addiction, HIV/AIDS, and recovery from major trauma or disaster. Also, three specific models of Link intervention aimed at the individual, family, and community levels are discussed, with special emphasis on the family-level intervention. These interventions are directed toward mobilizing resources for long-term physical, emotional, psychological, and spiritual healing.

An Integrated Model for Understanding and Developing Resilience in the Face of Adverse Events

“…Family support is essential to building psychological resilience. Family members are often trusted members of an individual's support system, and as well as providing direct support to an individual, can also provide linkages back to the wider community (Landau et al, 2008;Walsh, 2007). Family may often feel a greater sense of responsibility for other family members and may be more likely to become involved in interactions that will assist in developing resilience or reducing trauma.…”

Expressive Arts Therapy with Hospitalized Children: A Pilot Study of Co-Creating Healing Sock Creatures©

“…The collaboration of family, community, and natural support systems that provide crucial healing during medical events and after hospitalization can also significantly benefit the child (Landau, Mittal, & Wieling, 2008). These factors positively affect trauma outcomes (Callahan, Borja, Herbert, Maxwell, & Ruggero, 2013).…”

The Relationship Between Family Resilience and Aging Successfully

“…Engaging one's social support network allows the family and community to draw together as a unified team (Brix et al, 2008;Pruchno et al, 2010). There is a growing body of literature regarding the Linking Human Systems Approach based on individual, family, and community resilience in areas of disaster, crisis, and trauma (Landau, 2007;Landau, Mittal, & Wieling, 2008). The goal of this approach is to empower individuals, families and communities to recognize their resources for healing through the engagement of social support networks (Landau, 2007).…”

“…The goal of this approach is to empower individuals, families and communities to recognize their resources for healing through the engagement of social support networks (Landau, 2007). These networks include any and all persons that the individual comes in contact with: family, friends, neighbors, religious community, and healthcare providers (Landau et al, 2008). Members of the network are recruited to act as natural agents for change.…”