WHT IS CHILDHOOD TRAUMA?

The National Child Traumatic Stress Network (NCTSN) defines a traumatic event as any scary, dangerous or violent event that poses a threat to the physical safety, well-being, or bodily integrity of a child. Sometimes, traumatic events may directly involve the child. Other times, the event involves the parent, guardian, or another caregiver. Negativity, bullying and neglect by one or both parents can be considered emotional childhood trauma. Threats to the physical safety of a loved one may be just as traumatic as direct threats to the child.

These experiences can trigger strong physical and emotional responses, which may persist long after the event passes. Some children develop child traumatic stress: a visceral response to childhood trauma that may affect their daily lives and emotional well-being for years or even decades after the triggering event.

Types of Childhood Trauma

A child may experience a number of potentially traumatic events, including the following:

• Abuse (sexual, physical, psychological)

• Life-threatening accidents or illnesses

• Violence in school or the community

• Bullying

• Domestic violence (witnessing or experiencing)

• National disasters

• Acts of terror

• Public health crises such as COVID-19

• Loss of a loved one, especially when sudden or violent in nature

• Refugee or war experiences

• Neglect

Signs of Childhood Trauma in Preschool Children

• Fear of separation from parents or guardians

• Nightmares

• Poor eating habits and sudden weight loss

• Persistent cries or screams

Signs of Childhood Trauma in Elementary Schoolchildren

• Having feelings of guilt and shame

• Becoming fearful or anxious

• Having sleeping problems

• Having difficulty concentrating

Signs of Childhood Trauma in Middle and High School Children

• Depression

• Feelings of alienation

• Eating disorders

• Self-harming behaviors

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