Trauma, Development, and Spirituality Essay

Trauma, Development and Spirituality Trauma Trauma is detrimental, impactful and can have a negative influence in the development of children. The American Psychological Association (n.d.) describes trauma as, “an expressive response to a dreadful event such as, an accident, rape or natural disaster” (trauma section, para. 1). Trauma happens when you are involved or exposed to situations that are distressing or detrimental emotionally and may or may not be life threatening. These exposures can cause lasting adverse effects on individuals and possibly impact mental, physical, social, emotional, and/or spiritual well-being. This essay will focus on trauma and how it affects development and what might be the determining factors that lead to developmental delays when a child is exposed to trauma. According to the Brewer and Koen (2014), trauma is a precursor to many mental health conditions that greatly impact victims, their loved ones and society (pg 251). This is more concerning with childhood trauma which can impact neurodevelopmental and psychosocial developmental processes. This often occurs when the trauma introduces psychological stress and other unpleasant reactions. There are several different types of childhood trauma that will lead to developmental delays, such as child abuse and neglect. Studies have shown this type of trauma has been associated with an increased risk for depressive disorder in young children to young adulthood. Additionally, emotionally abused adolescence commonly developed an eating disorder. Physically abused children were found to have aggressive behavioral problems and often externalized problem behaviors well into adulthood. No matter the form of trauma (may it be natural, or human created), the consequences can turn into disorders of mental or behavior ailments that can eventually impact serious mental or emotional stressors. These stressors could result in personal injury. Just as the method of delivery or source of trauma varies, so can the impacts. Trauma and resilience The American Psychological Association (2019) noted, “resilience is the process of adapting well when confronted by adversity, tragedy, significant stressors, and trauma” (as cited in Wong & Hernandez, 2020, p. 132.). Therefore, it is possible for children to overcome the challenges of trauma and rebound from trauma with resilience. Self-belief, increased self-esteem and empowering initiatives, that points towards proactive self-awareness and reliance, are critical components of resilience and overcoming trauma. Children Resilience is the ability of a child to improve and show early physical/emotional signs of recovery after trauma. However, adult influence, interaction and support is necessary for child resilience to be successful. According to research having a strong powerful adult relationship is a key ingredient in resilience. Shonkoff (n.d.) echoed this and stated, “Resilience depends on supportive, responsive relationships and mastering a set of capabilities that can help us respond and adapt to adversity in healthy ways,” (Walsh, 2015, par 3). Although adult guidance and support is necessary, spiritual guidance is a welcome component to the healing process. Spiritual Development Scripture understands humanities limitations and ability to process pain and grief. Therefore, Matthew 11:28-30 is a welcomed word to anyone who may be feeling overburdened by trauma. The Scripture states, “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. “…..for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” (ESV). The hope within these worlds provides the ability of anyone who is traumatized to lay issues/hurt/grief on Christ. This is in line with some practitioner’s belief of integrating faith to aid in recovery. Brewer and Koenig (2014) stated, “Findings suggest that spiritual or religious individuals may experience a protective effect against the neuroendocrine consequences of stress” (pg. 253). Spirituality can promote social assistance and has been found to help individuals with suicidal ideations and previous sexual trauma. Spirituality has been defined differently and practiced broadly. The concept of religious coping involves different approaches; this could be seeking spiritual support, God’s love, or surrendering all to God. With various research and approaches there is also a downside to religious/spiritual help with trauma if wrath or sin is emphasized. This could prevent someone from forgiving themselves and increase blaming themselves for past traumatic situations. Despite “spirituality & trauma” needing more research and study in the area, people often find inner peace and a purposeful successful life with it. Having a spiritual belief system can help to bring peace, harmony and meaning to process and overcome traumatic experience. The challenge would be translating this is a way that children can understand and accept. Conclusion Southwick (2011) believed, “Individual outcomes after traumatic events depend on genetics, development, cognitive, psychological, and neurobiological risk and protective factors, religion and spirituality are important considerations when studying resilience (as cited in Brewer & Koenig, 2014, pg 254). A person’s response to trauma is different from the next, trauma may have a different impact on different developmental process may it be physiological and/or psychological. The idea behind resiliency is grasping the issues as soon as possible to limit the damage and reduce the impact of the trauma. The overall goal is to permit healing and allow recovery. Additional work needs to be done to find a comprehensive solution that allows children to blend all methods to achieve successful results prior to entering adulthood.