Children Exposed to Harm

Each year in the United States approximately five million children experience some form of  traumatic event. Traumatic experiences can have a devastating impact on the child, altering their physical, emotional, cognitive, and social development. Traumatic events in childhood increase the risk for a host of social, neuropsychiatric, and physical health problems throughout life.

As with most situations, children seek answers and comfort from adults around them, yet we often feel helpless in this role. Indeed, most traumatic experiences challenge the most mature and experienced adult. While adults do not have all the answers, they can help children better understand the traumatic event and the ways we respond to the trauma.

If the primary caregivers are impacted by the same trauma, it is imperative that they get the treatment that compliments the work with the child. Indeed, the best intervention for infants and young children is treating the primary caregiving adults. As they become less anxious, fearful and impaired, the more available they are to the infant and toddler.

Contrary to popular belief, even infants and very young children experiencing traumatic events can be affected. Indeed, there is increasing evidence to suggest that the younger a child, the more pervasive are the post-traumatic problems.

These are a few simple points to keep in mind. The infant’s world is defined by his or her caregivers. If the caregivers are preoccupied, depressed, anxious, exhausted, or absent due to post-traumatic symptoms, this will adversely impact the young child.