#SIGNS OF CHILDHOOD TRAUMA IN ADULTHOOD FULL#
#SIGNS OF CHILDHOOD TRAUMA IN ADULTHOOD PROFESSIONAL#

Children may even lose the memory of the experience, resulting in memory gaps. They might imagine being outside of their bodies and watching reality from somewhere else. Children who go through trauma may also experience the following:Ĭhildren exposed to complex traumas may even experience dissociation, which involves mentally separating oneself from the traumatic event. Impact on Mental HealthĬhildhood trauma can also affect mental health. Chronic pain, autoimmune diseases, and other disorders may also affect children with traumatic experiences. In particular, recurrent trauma increases a child’s risk of developing heart disease, asthma, stroke, and diabetes. Studies have shown that children may be at risk of developing chronic illnesses later on in life the more they are exposed to negative experiences.

#SIGNS OF CHILDHOOD TRAUMA IN ADULTHOOD FULL#

Stress can also affect a child’s immune and central nervous systems, making it more difficult for them to reach their full potential. The Effect of Childhood Trauma on Health and Life Impact on Physical HealthĪ traumatic event can affect a child’s physical growth. Difficulties with focus, attention, and concentration.Poor, chaotic, or unfulfilling relationships.

The following are some indicators of childhood trauma that may continue on into adulthood:

#SIGNS OF CHILDHOOD TRAUMA IN ADULTHOOD PROFESSIONAL#

While some children will be able to process and recover from their trauma with the passage of time, maturity, or professional care, research shows that this trauma is associated with physical, emotional, and mental symptoms that may persist into adulthood. Risky sexual behavior Signs of Childhood Trauma in AdultsĬhildhood trauma does not only show up during the childhood and adolescent stages. Intense fear of separation from their parent or guardianĭeveloping eating disorders or other self-harming behaviors Here are some common signs to look out for if you think a child may be experiencing trauma: Trauma may also show up differently depending on the child’s age. The signs of trauma may manifest differently in each child. Identifying Signs of Trauma in Different Stages of Childhood

Experiencing or witnessing domestic violence.

Institutional racism in schools or communities.

Loss of a loved one due to various circumstances (e.g., separation, death, etc.).

Living with a parent or guardian who has a mental illness.

Violence in the home, school, or community.

Traumatic events may include but are not limited to the following: In addition to potentially altering a child’s mental, physical, social, and emotional health, reactions to traumatic events can also have long-lasting consequences on how they function on a daily basis. They may even be defenseless during this time. Children occasionally have these negative feelings in response to an encounter or event that they are unable to prevent. When this occurs, it may result in feelings of anxiety, loss, or distress. When we experience or see an urgent threat to ourselves or a loved one (often followed by major injury or harm), the incident can be traumatic. What are Traumatic Events?Ī traumatic event is one that is scary, dangerous, or violent. This depends on the type of traumatic event(s) that they encounter. However, not all trauma is created equal what might be considered normal or readily accepted for one person may not be for another. What Is Childhood Trauma?Ĭhildhood trauma can take many different forms depending on the circumstance and the person, but it is commonly defined as any hazardous or dangerous situation that a child encounters, observes, or learns about. This exposure to different people, circumstances, and experiences can increase a child’s susceptibility to trauma.īut what exactly is childhood trauma? Here, we’ll discuss just that. During this period, rapid growth and brain development occur in children, and they are very much dependent on their caretakers for safety, care, and nurturing. And early childhood trauma can be particularly detrimental.Įarly childhood trauma refers to trauma that occurs between birth and age six. We hear about “trauma” and “being traumatized” quite often these days, but not everyone may fully understand the implications of these experiences. The following piece was authored by Michael Vallejo, LCSW, a child and family therapist based in Colorado. At Inside SEL, our mission is to act as a megaphone, amplifying the great work being done by leaders in education and social-emotional learning across the country.

Signs of childhood trauma in adulthood