The value of support for aid workers in complex emergencies: a phenomenological study.
BACKGROUND
More disasters worldwide are now classified as complex emergencies, thereby increasing the threat to life and limb and potentially increasing the psychosocial impact of the experience for aid workers.


OBJECTIVE
This study examines the concept of support as perceived by aid workers who had recent experience in complex emergencies.


METHODS
Using a phenomenological approach, 6 professional aid workers were interviewed about their experience.


RESULTS
Aid workers who work in complex emergencies do not feel supported at the pre-deployment, during deployment, and after deployment phases. Failure to provide this support may cause disappointment, reduced self-worth, anger with the organization, and feeling of lack of achievement regarding self and the mission.


CONCLUSIONS
While the study may be limited by the volunteer sample and potential bias in data collection, the findings reiterate a proverbial but important issue in relation to aid relief staff in complex emergencies.
Hearns
Annette
A
United Nations Mission in Sudan, United Nations Office for Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, Garden City, Buri, Khartoum, Sudan.
Deeny
Pat
P
D000328:Adult; D000786:Anger; D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D002055:Burnout, Professional / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000523:psychology; D003142:Communication; D004189:Disaster Planning / Q000458:organization & administration*; D004630:Emergencies / Q000523:psychology*; D005060:Europe; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007318:Inservice Training; D007390:International Agencies / Q000458:organization & administration; D007857:Leadership; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D008960:Models, Psychological; D020380:Needs Assessment / Q000458:organization & administration*; D015404:Nursing Methodology Research; D016272:Occupational Health; D009938:Organizations / Q000458:organization & administration; D011361:Professional Competence; D012066:Relief Work / Q000458:organization & administration*; D012649:Self Concept; D012944:Social Support; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires