#COMPLEX TRAUMA DOWNLOAD#

Children who experience those disorders may present with similar signs and symptoms as if they experienced complex trauma (DeJong & Wilkinson, 2019 Denton et al., 2016). Understanding that complex trauma is distinct is important because the potential effects – and associated supports and treatments – differ from other kinds of trauma (Denton et al., 2016 Kliethermes et al., 2014).Ĭomplex post-traumatic stress disorder and developmental trauma disorder are other concepts often present in research. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is also distinct, as it does not fully capture the possible effects of complex trauma experiences on a child’s development (Cook et al., 2005 Denton, Frogley, Jackson, John, & Querstret, 2016 Kliethermes et al., 2014).

Other examples of complex trauma experiences include community violence and trauma in medical settings (Kliethermes et al., 2014 Lawson & Quinn, 2013).Ĭomplex trauma is distinct from single incident trauma (sometimes referred to as ‘type I trauma’), which consists of a once-off traumatic event (Blue Knot Foundation, 2021b Kliethermes et al., 2014). These kinds of experiences are also most likely to be relevant in the Australian setting.

This resource focuses on these specific experiences as they are the focus of most complex trauma research. However, this resource will use the term to refer to the traumatic events themselves.Įxamples of common kinds of complex trauma experiences include physical, emotional or sexual abuse, neglect, or witnessing family and domestic violence. Complex trauma can also sometimes be used to refer to the consequences or symptoms of the severe stressors (Kliethermes et al., 2014).

Traumatic experiences often occur in the context of a relationship with a trusted adult who would normally provide safety and consistency (Lawson & Quinn, 2013). This may be related to the importance of this period for brain development and forming attachment relationships (Kliethermes et al., 2014). These stressors start during childhood, at a developmental time point when the child is considered vulnerable. If a child is not appropriately supported, these stressors may have ongoing implications for their development and wellbeing (Lawson & Quinn, 2013 Lyons-Ruth et al., 2017).Ĭomplex trauma (sometimes referred to as ‘type II trauma’) occurs when a child repeatedly experiences severe stressors or traumatic events over an extended period of time (Kliethermes, Schacht, & Drewry, 2014 Lawson & Quinn, 2013). This makes children particularly vulnerable to any stressors or traumatic events at this time. Early childhood, especially infancy, is a time of rapid development when the foundations for a range of critical skills and capacities are formed (Lawson & Quinn, 2013). This is when there is sufficient reason to believe the child has been, is being, or is likely to be harmed in some way (Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 2020b).Īll children, even infants, can be significantly impacted by traumatic experiences. Infants younger than 12 months of age appear to be particularly vulnerable to such experiences, and are twice as likely as other age groups to have at least one substantiated child protection notification. Some children, however, are exposed to traumatic experiences that can present significant challenges to their development and wellbeing, such as child abuse and neglect (Council of Australian Governments, 2009). Most infants and young children in Australia grow up in healthy environments that provide safety and stability. The practice reflection questions are to help professionals further explore the issues presented, reflect on their current practice and consider opportunities where a trauma-informed perspective may be useful in supporting the children in their practice. The information in this resource is intended to help professionals raise their awareness of complex trauma and its presentation. It also discusses how professionals can connect children and families with services to support resilience and recovery. birth through to five years), and aims to support professionals to use a ‘whole-child’ approach that considers how early life experiences (including trauma) may shape development and behaviour. It explores the possible effects of complex trauma in early childhood (i.e. This resource introduces complex trauma and trauma-informed care, including their importance in supporting the wellbeing and mental health of infants and young children.

#COMPLEX TRAUMA DOWNLOAD#

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