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TYPES OF CHILDHOOD TRAUMA

Childhood trauma is any event or series of events that are emotionally or physically harmful to a child. It can be caused by abuse, neglect, or other traumatic experiences. Childhood trauma can have a lasting impact on a child's physical and mental health.

Some common types of childhood trauma include:

  • Physical abuse: This is when a child is hit, kicked, or otherwise physically harmed by an adult.
  • Sexual abuse: This is when a child is forced to engage in sexual activity with an adult.
  • Emotional abuse: This is when a child is verbally or emotionally mistreated by an adult.
  • Neglect: This is when a child's basic needs for food, shelter, clothing, and medical care are not met.
  • Natural disasters: These are events such as hurricanes, tornadoes, and earthquakes that can cause physical and emotional trauma to children.
  • War: This is a time of great upheaval and violence that can have a profound impact on children.

Childhood trauma can lead to a number of problems, including:

  • Mental health problems: These can include anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and substance abuse.
  • Physical health problems: These can include chronic pain, headaches, stomachaches, and sleep problems.
  • Behavioral problems: These can include aggression, defiance, and withdrawal.
  • Learning problems: These can include difficulty paying attention, reading, and writing.
  • Relationship problems: These can include difficulty forming and maintaining healthy relationships.

If you think that you or your child may have experienced childhood trauma, it is important to seek help. There are many resources available to help you cope with the effects of trauma and to rebuild your life.

Here are some resources that can help:

  • The National Child Traumatic Stress Network (NCTSN): This website provides information on childhood trauma and how to get help.
  • The National Domestic Violence Hotline: This hotline provides support to victims of domestic violence, including children.
  • The Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN): This hotline provides support to victims of sexual assault, including children.
  • The American Psychological Association (APA): This website provides information on mental health and how to get help.

You can also talk to your doctor or a mental health professional about childhood trauma. They can help you assess your needs and develop a treatment plan.

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ABOUT KERRY GRAVES

Kerry Graves Headshot - Child Abuse & Neglect Consultant

Mr. Kerry Graves, MSW, LCSWA, is a licensed Mental Health Counselor, Author, Speaker, Private Investigator, Forensic Biologist, Certified Forensic Interviewer, Personal Protection Specialist, and Child Welfare Expert. He has shared his expertise on child abuse panels and child abuse organizations with high school and college students and different communities. In 2020, he published a book discussing psychological disturbances in teenagers. In addition, Kerry has shared his expertise on 107.5 WKZL, Greensboro Sports Radio, and WGHP Fox 8; he’s provided on-air protection for CNN and Fox media professionals. His passion is hosting the Second Wind Podcast and traveling across the Eastern Seaboard speaking about child abuse and neglect and a myriad of other topics.