Children and Trauma

Traumatic events may be repressed but are not fully forgotten. The child may re-experience the trauma through any of her senses. She may experience vivid and unwelcome flashbacks, often during quiet, unfocused times, such as when bored in class, falling asleep, listening to the radio, or watching television.

In the child’s play or behavior, she will recall and attempt to rework the event. Her drawings and stories may incorporate and reflect the traumatic event(s). Although referred to as “play,” repetitive post-traumatic play is more often grim work. Reliving the event represents an attempt to master fears that continue to haunt or overwhelm the child.

Tragically, trauma shatters the natural sense of invincibility and trust basic to normal childhood. This shakes the child’s confidence about the future and can lead to limited expectations. Traumatized children often have a pessimistic view of career, marriage, having children, and even life expectancy.

Other signs common to children who suffer post-traumatic stress disorder include sleep problems; nightmares; exaggerated startle response; panic; deliberate avoidance of reminders of the trauma; irritability; immature or regressed behavior; and hypervigilance.

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