Trauma, by definition, is unbearable and intolerable. Traumatic experiences leave traces whether on the large scale of our histories and cultures or on families where dark secrets are passed down through the generations. They leave traces also on our minds and emotions and on biology and immune systems. Trauma effects not only those directly exposed but those around them. Soldiers returning from combat can frighten their families with their rage and absence. The wife of someone who has PTSD often become depressed and the children of those depressed mothers are at higher risk of growing up insecure and anxious.
Van Der Kolk’s model for approaching developmental trauma focuses on young people, beginning with establishing a sense of safety and competence in which they can focus on pleasurable experiences without becoming dysregulated (Machiodi, 2020). This involves directing attention to activities that do not remind them of trauma and create a sense of mastery. The second step involves dealing with traumatic re-enactments in which children replay their trauma through fear, aggression, sexual acting out, lack of control, impulsivity and avoidance. This includes perceiving helping adults as perpetrators that want to harm them. In this step, it is important to help children recognise and begin to change their responses to trauma. Finally, the third part involves paying attention to the body which emphasises the sense of mastery, feeling calm and in charge and focusing on goals. Children need to experience curiosity and safely explore their environment while developing confidence through play and physical games.
References
Malchiodi, C. A. (2020). Trauma and expressive arts therapy: Brain, body, and imagination in the healing process. Guilford Publications.
Kolk, B. V. (2015). The body keeps the score: Brain, mind, and body in the healing of trauma. Penguin.