Childhood Trauma / No. 1

'Nightmares are also common among children with post-traumatic stress disorder, as are recollections of the traumatic event that occur during waking hours and intrude into the child’s thoughts. These children may tend to startle easily and be very vigilant...Some children also experience visual hallucinations both immediately following and long after the single-event trauma. After witnessing his mother’s murder, for example a child may see monsters lurking in corners that are understandably terrifying.’

The AACAP (American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry) is the leading national professional medical association dedicated to treating and improving the quality of life for children, adolescents, and families affected by these disorders.

 http://www.aacap.org/cs/root/publication_store/your_child_childhood_trauma_and_its_effects 

Early childhood traumas (events that happen before the age of six) can lead to long-term depression and anxiety, and many other psychological issues. Severe traumas can even change the brain’s chemistry itself! In addition to physical, sexual and verbal abuse, children are often made to feel worthless, unlovable, insecure, and even threatened. Degradation and neglect are also considered a chief threat to the children’s psyche. The lack of positive feedback can also be detrimental to a child's self-esteem.

It is the "repeated pattern" of abuse that causes lasting damage to a child. The occasional slap on the wrist probably won't cause permanent harm; but on the other hand, an ongoing pattern of corporeal punishment, or even the threat of punishment, certainly will.

The most important thing to remember is to provide the child with a safe and supportive environment. Praise and encouragement are indispensable to a child's sense of emotional well-being as well as safety and emotional security. Safe and trustworthy environment creates optimism. Pay attention to your child’s body language.

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