The Psychological Impact of Trauma on the Family Unit

Lifespan Development- EDUC 600-B03

Crisis InterventionPamela Noble

Liberty UniversityDr. Maldonado

Purpose• Identify the effects of crises, disasters, and other

trauma causing events that can effect human growth and development.

• Identify common reactions to trauma as it pertains to the family as a unit.

• Identify key prevention and intervention strategies during and after a traumatic event.

Rare Effects of Trauma

They Are:

● Maturity growth● Interrupted adolescent

development (medical issues)● Repeated exposure to the same

trauma (e.g. parental neglect)● Poor communication skills due to

isolation

Common Reactions to Trauma

Young Children

● Irritability● Crying● Low appetite ● Regressive symptoms● Sleep disturbances

Common Reactions to Trauma

Older Children

● Behavior problems at school● Depression● Somatic symptoms (e.g. headaches,

stomach aches)● Engages in high risk behaviors

Common Reactions to TraumaAdulthood

They may:

• Abuse alcohol and drugs• Feel hopeless about the future• Exhibit psychosocial pathologies• Demonstrate poor coping skills (e.g.

parental reaction)

Intervention and Prevention Strategies

They may:

● Include “wrap around” services (e.g. mental health providers, school personnel)

● Develop active coping skills (e.g. modeling self care)

● Create a support system that includes other family members

● Conduct assessment activities (e.g. PTSD)● Coordinate and maintain a prevention model

Conclusion A traumatic event is defined as an experience that causes physical, emotional, psychological distress or harm. It is an event that is perceived and experienced as a threat to one’s safety or to the stability of one’s world.

God said “when the righteous cry for help, the Lord hears and delivers them out of their troubles. The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed into spirit. Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the lord delivers him out of all of them. He keeps all his bones; not one of them is broken.” Psalms 34:17-20

References

www.nim.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/001924.htm