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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