The youngest lack verbal and conceptual skills to cope fully with the sudden stress, and may be affected just as much or more by their parents' or siblings' reactions.
Peer reactions are very important to pre-adolescents. Kids in this group need acceptance from friends, and to feel that their feelings and fears are normal.
Adolescents are especially affected by their peers' opinions. Fears that their feelings or reactions are unusual or unacceptable might push the adolescent toward withdrawal or depression. Psychosomatic reactions are common.
Disasters are scary enough for grownups. Disasters hit kids even harder.
