Impact of trauma on brain development and functioning-children

Trauma in children can lead to persistent fear, hyperarousal, diminished executive functioning, and complicated social interactions.

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A persistent fear response 

The chronic stress of repeated trauma can produce several biological reactions such as a persistent state of fear. This adaptation, while beneficial in a hostile world, can become a routine of life that is hard to change, even if a child’s surroundings improve. A generalised fear response can lay the foundation for future chronic stress and anxiety disorders such as PTSD. 

Hyperarousal 

When a child’s developing brain experiences chronic, traumatic stress, neuro pathways for the fear responses become routine and create memories that trigger fear without conscious thought. Children can become sensitive to non-verbal cues, such as eye contact or touch and are more apt to misinterpret them.

Increased internalising symptoms 

Chronic trauma can lead to chemical and structural changes in the brain affecting the regulation of emotions and stress. Abuse and neglect can affect the connection between the Amygdala and Hippocampus which can initiate development of depression and anxiety in adolescence.

Diminished executive functioning 

Executive functioning typically includes 3 distinct features: working memory, inhibitory control (filtering of thoughts and impulses) and cognitive flexibility (adjusting to demands). At an early age, trauma and chronic stress can cause deficits in executive functioning such as lower academic achievement, intellectual deterioration, and short attention span.

Delayed development milestones 

Failure to meet a child’s cognitive, emotional, or social needs constitutes as neglect. Lack of stimulation during early years can lead to weak neuro pathways, inhibiting a child’s ability to achieve developmental milestones.

Complicated social interactions 

Toxic stress can hinder brain development in such a way that makes engaging with others in social settings feel uncomfortable and daunting and trigger a negative response.

Unexpected Response to positive feedback 

Children that experience traumatic stress are maybe less responsive to positive stimuli - ambivalence or aggression may be observed as a response to praise. 

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Practical resources and information about building trauma-informed practice in education settings.

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