Traumatic events and adverse childhood events “A young person might be scared the trauma will happen again. Trauma can continue even when adults think it’s over. You can’t forget about it as it can have a serious impact, even if it looks as if it’s over.” Ines, 11 years old A traumatic event is where a person is exposed to actual or threatened death, serious injury or sexual violation, or experiences a sense of horror (e.g. experiencing, witnessing, or becoming aware of something horrific). Traumatic events are also known as adverse childhood events when they occur pre or during adolescence (285). Adverse childhood events can include but are not exclusive to:
– Physical abuse – Sexual abuse – Neglect
– Bullying or victimisation – Periods of serious illness – Being in an accident
– Crime or community violence – Family separation or divorce – Bereavement following the death of a friend or family member – Involvement in crime, gangs, or drug culture – Time in a young offender’s institute/prison or the criminal justice system – Time in residential care
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