Childhood trauma is an often misunderstood issue, with many parents unaware of the wide variety of experiences that can contribute to emotional and psychological distress. While physical abuse or neglect might be top of mind when thinking about trauma, many other events can have equally profound effects. These include medical trauma, witnessing violence, or even bullying. October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, an ideal time to reflect on how children are impacted by trauma—even if they are not the direct victims. When trauma goes untreated, it can lead to severe long-term consequences. Therefore, understanding and addressing trauma in children and teens is critical to promoting mental health and ensuring their emotional well-being.
Recognizing Less Obvious Sources of Trauma
Trauma does not always result from extreme or violent events. While abuse and violence are significant contributors, many forms of trauma are less obvious to parents and caregivers. Medical trauma, for instance, is a common source that often flies under the radar. When a child or teen undergoes a medical procedure, experiences a prolonged illness, or witnesses a family member’s health struggles, the fear, helplessness, and stress associated with these events can have lasting psychological effects. Children may develop symptoms of anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as a result.
As Dr. Kelsey Smith explains, “Talking about these things can be very hard for parents and children. Many parents think that by not talking about what happened they are protecting their children, when in reality it can lead to children feeling like they should be ashamed or that it is their fault. It is okay to talk about it!”
Other potential sources of trauma include school bullying, the loss of a loved one, or even a family move. These experiences, although sometimes considered a “normal part of life,” can cause significant distress for children. A child’s emotional response to any event is influenced by their age, developmental stage, and the support they receive. What may seem minor to an adult could be deeply traumatic to a child, particularly if they lack the coping skills or emotional support to process the event.
The Hidden Impact of Witnessing Domestic Violence
When discussing trauma, it’s essential to recognize the serious effects of domestic violence (DV) on children. Even if a child is not directly harmed, witnessing violence in the home can be incredibly damaging. Children who see or hear acts of violence between their caregivers are often left feeling scared, powerless, and confused. They may struggle to understand what is happening, and over time, the chronic stress can lead to the development of trauma-related symptoms, including PTSD.
Research shows that children who witness domestic violence are more likely to experience anxiety, depression, and emotional dysregulation. In some cases, they may even display similar symptoms to those who have experienced physical abuse. This is because their brains are still developing, and repeated exposure to trauma can alter how they process emotions and respond to stress. Unfortunately, many parents underestimate the emotional toll that witnessing domestic violence can have, especially if the child appears outwardly “fine” or does not express their fears openly.
Dr. Smith notes, “Young children can sometimes have a hard time utilizing language to express what they have experienced. This may come out in re-enacting what happened in play. Parents can support their children in processing these experiences by creating new narratives, such as telling them they are safe, praising them for being brave, and validating their emotions.”
The Long-Term Effects of Untreated Trauma
When trauma goes unrecognized or untreated in children and teens, the consequences can be far-reaching. Early childhood trauma has been linked to a range of long-term mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and PTSD. These conditions can persist into adulthood, impacting relationships, academic or career performance, and overall quality of life. Children who do not receive proper support after a traumatic event may also struggle with emotional regulation, leading to behavior problems, social difficulties, or difficulty trusting others.
Untreated trauma can also affect brain development, particularly in areas related to stress response and emotional regulation. This makes it harder for children to manage future stress, increasing the likelihood of developing chronic mental health issues. Adolescents who have experienced trauma may also be more likely to engage in risky behaviors, such as substance use or self-harm, as a way of coping with their unresolved emotions.
Dr. Smith adds, “Parents can feel a lot of different emotions when they realize their kid is experiencing trauma-related symptoms. Parents—it is okay to need support as well in processing what has happened!”
The Importance of Early Intervention
Addressing trauma in its early stages is essential for preventing long-term mental health issues. Therapy can provide children and teens with a safe space to process their emotions, learn coping skills, and begin to heal. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and trauma-focused therapy are particularly effective in helping young people navigate their trauma and reduce the severity of their symptoms. Additionally, working with a therapist who specializes in childhood trauma ensures that the treatment approach is tailored to the child’s developmental needs.
Parents play a crucial role in the healing process as well. By being aware of the signs of trauma, offering emotional support, and seeking professional help when needed, they can help their child navigate difficult experiences. Open communication, patience, and understanding are essential components of a supportive home environment that fosters healing.
Conclusion
Trauma in children and teens is not always visible, and it can stem from a variety of sources, including medical experiences, bullying, and domestic violence. It is crucial for parents and caregivers to recognize these potential traumas and seek early intervention. Untreated trauma can lead to long-term emotional and psychological difficulties, but with the right support and treatment, children can recover and build resilience. Working with a licensed mental health practitioner can help children process their trauma, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and improve emotional regulation. Therapists trained in trauma-focused approaches can also provide valuable support for families, helping them create a safe and understanding environment. If you believe your child has experienced trauma, don’t hesitate to reach out for professional help—early intervention can make all the difference in their healing journey.
American Psychological Association. (2017). Childhood trauma and its effect on healthy development. https://www.apa.org/pi/families/resources/child-abuse
National Child Traumatic Stress Network. (n.d.). Types of traumatic stress. https://www.nctsn.org/what-is-child-trauma/trauma-types
National Domestic Violence Hotline. (n.d.). Children and domestic violence. https://www.thehotline.org/resources/children-and-domestic-violence/
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2014). SAMHSA’s concept of trauma and guidance for a trauma-informed approach (HHS Publication No. SMA 14-4884). https://ncsacw.samhsa.gov/userfiles/files/SAMHSA_Trauma.pdf
World Health Organization. (2022). Understanding trauma in children.
https://www.who.int/news-room/questions-and-answers/item/childhood-trauma
About Kelsey Smith, PsyD
Dr. Kelsey Smith is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with specific expertise in treating trauma in children, adolescents and teens. Her extensive background in pediatric psychology includes a wide array of treatment settings including residential treatment centers, inpatient psychiatric hospitals, K-12 schools, and community mental health agencies. In addition to individual and family therapy, Dr. Smith also offers psychological testing and assessment services for children, teens, and adults.
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