Coping with Tragedy, Reacting to an Event

Abstract

This article analyzes the unexpected nature and the consequences of the school shooting in Jokela, Finland in 2007. The study is based on interviews with professionals who participated in the relief efforts after the shooting incident. The analysis focuses on the role of the local youth workers during the days following the crisis. Reactions to the shootings and the consequences of the incident in the local community of Jokela are also considered. The philosophical concept of the event is used to highlight the suddenness of the school shooting incident, likewise its transformative character and its power to reshape public space. The results show that the efforts of the youth workers considerably helped the young in Jokela to cope with the immediate shock and changes in the community life after the shooting.