The role of friendships and peer groups in children exposed to mass trauma

Am J Orthopsychiatry. 2026 Jan 19. doi: 10.1037/ort0000876. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Mass traumas, resulting from war and terrorist attacks, natural or human-made disasters, are rapidly escalating worldwide. Nevertheless, studies examining the implications of mass trauma on children are limited, particularly in terms of how it affects peer relations and friendships. This study focused on how the children’s exposure to a massive terror attack and war influences their peer relations and friendships, and how these help them cope with the implications of the mass trauma. The uniqueness of the present study lies in its focus on the lived experiences and voices of children and youth. A qualitative, phenomenological approach was used, with 51 children aged 10-17 participating in focus groups. The findings indicate that while the trauma initially disrupted friendships, it also fostered positive changes. Many children reported stronger bonds with friends, expanded social networks, and increased appreciation for their peers. Moreover, friendships emerged as a critical coping resource, providing emotional support, and compensating for the perceived emotional absence of adults, who were often overwhelmed by their own distress. This study highlighted the importance of children’s voices in understanding the social dimensions of trauma. The implications of these findings for policy and practice are discussed. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2026 APA, all rights reserved).

PMID:41556904 | DOI:10.1037/ort0000876