Childhoo Childhood Trauma

Childhood trauma can be defined as anything that makes a child feel unsafe (“Causes of”). Something unexpected, repeated, or intentionally cruel is most likely to be seen as traumatic. Physical and sexual abuse, neglect, and parental substance abuse are major causes of trauma in children and adolescents. Some of the lesser known causes of trauma are bullying, mental illness in the family, and the loss of a parent. According to research, “14 to 43 percent of children have experienced at least one traumatic event in their lifetime” (“The Facts”). Trauma at any age affects a person’s well-being, but childhood trauma is often the most damaging. Children who experience trauma are at higher risks for health issues and committing violent crimes. Obesity, drug use, alcoholism, and suicide attempts can all be related to trauma experienced before adulthood. Abnormal brain wave patterns and symptoms similar to epilepsy can be caused by trauma. More stress hormones are produced in people who have been through a traumatic event. “In high doses, it [trauma] affects brain development, the immune system, hormonal systems, and even the way our DNA is read and transcribed” (Harris).

Worrying, wetting the bed, and acting out are effects that will more than likely disappear as the child ages. Mental illnesses, like depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder often stay with the child or teen during their lifetime. Children sometimes distance themselves from others or become numb to the events around them. The loss of a parent, divorce, and serious medical issues often cause children to lose their childhood experience. “66 percent of kids said… ‘they felt like they weren’t a kid anymore’,” after experiencing the death of a parent