Trauma and Its Impact on Children

Exposure to traumatic experiences in childhood is more frequent than uncommon and can have a significant impact on the development and social-emotional health of children and adolescents. A recent national study revealed that approximately 34 million children in the United States had experienced at least one of nine adverse childhood experiences which have the potential to lead to traumatic stress and impact the child's psychological wellbeing. A traumatic event is one in which a child experiences a direct or perceived threat of harm that renders the child feeling overwhelmed and fearful for their safety and the safety of those around them. This article presents factors influencing the impact of trauma on children, children's responses to traumatic events, and the role of the school psychologist.