Did you know that 63.9% of US adults have reported having at least one adverse childhood experience or potentially traumatic event before 18 years of age (1)?
A variety of emotional responses can occur after a distressing or threatening event and their effects can vary from person to person (2). For children, experiences such as abuse, neglect, violence, or any event that causes significant distress can leave lasting damage and potential trauma. Recognizing the signs of childhood trauma in your own life can be an empowering first step toward healing and personal growth.
This article explores what childhood trauma is, including the 8 main types of childhood traumas, how these experiences can impact you over time, and practical ways to recognize and process trauma safely and effectively.
Childhood trauma occurs when a child (0 to 18 years old) experiences or witnesses an event that leaves them feeling intensely threatened, overwhelmed, or unsafe (3).
Trauma is deeply personal and complex, often manifesting in different ways for every person (4). While some children may develop lasting emotional scars after a traumatic event, others exposed to similar experiences may not. This can depend on a child’s life circumstances, emotional health, and social support, but it’s not always this simple.
Ultimately, trauma isn’t defined by the event itself, but by how it is experienced and processed by the individual. Factors such as a child’s sense of safety and responses from parents, caregivers, and teachers can play a crucial role in preventing the trauma from becoming emotionally overwhelming or severe (5).
Fortunately, many therapies, resources, and other options are available to help address unresolved childhood trauma, both in adolescence and in adulthood (6). With patience, time, and compassionate support, many people with past childhood trauma can rebuild their sense of security to begin their healing journey.
If you’re looking for extra mental health support, the Psychology Today website offers a search feature to help you find nearby providers in your area (United States only).
Childhood trauma can arise from a variety of distressing experiences that have a lasting impact on a child’s emotional and psychological well-being (3).
While these are broad categories, they’re not intended to diagnose or label specific experiences but to provide a framework for understanding common sources of childhood trauma that often persist into adulthood when left unaddressed. Below are the 8 main types of childhood trauma and what they may entail:
Abuse and assault often leave lasting effects on a child’s psychological and physical well-being and these actions can come from various people in a child’s life, including family members, peers, or other trusted adults.
Physical abuse occurs when a child is intentionally harmed through acts such as hitting, slapping, or burning, while psychological abuse involves harming a child’s emotional well-being through constant belittling, humiliation, or neglect (7). These forms of abuse are typically non-accidental and can have lasting negative consequences to physical and emotional health that often persist into adulthood.
Sexual abuse is another deeply traumatic experience that involves any sexual contact or behavior with a child, whether it’s by trusted adults or peers (8). The effects of sexual abuse can lead to a range of negative psychosocial outcomes that include trauma and an increased risk of developing other conditions such as substance use, eating disorders, and depression (8).
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Bullying is a form of repeated, intentional harm that is directed at a child who is perceived as weaker or more vulnerable (9). It can manifest physically, emotionally, or verbally and can occur both in person and online.
Common bullying behaviors include name-calling, exclusion, physical intimidation, and spreading hurtful rumors, all of which are aimed at undermining a child’s self-esteem and sense of security. The impact on the child can be significant, potentially leading to struggles with self-worth, social relationships, and academic performance (10).
Although it may not be possible to completely shield a child from the effects of bullying, their resilience to bullying can be strengthened by a support system of caring adults, the development of positive coping skills, and improved cognitive abilities (9).
Community violence refers to the exposure to violent events in the neighborhood or surrounding area, including gang activity, school shootings, and police brutality (11).
For children, living in such an environment can create a constant state of fear as they’re frequently exposed to danger and threats. This chronic exposure often leads to a wide range of mental health challenges, including a higher risk of developing depressive symptoms and antisocial behaviors as well as poor academic performance (11).
The trauma of living in a violent environment can also shape how children perceive the world. From an early age, they may learn to distrust others, feel that the world is unsafe, or believe they are helpless to change their current situation (12). Providing adequate social support is essential for children to heal and rebuild their sense of trust and safety.
Witnessing domestic violence between two parents can be profoundly traumatic for children, even if they’re not directly involved in the violence (13).
The emotional toll of seeing one parent harmed or hearing the violence can cause deep fear and distress. Similar to community violence, socioeconomic factors appear to have a strong association with children who have been exposed to domestic violence (14).
Children who have witnessed domestic violence may develop unhealthy attitudes toward conflict resolution, often viewing violence as an acceptable solution to their problems. Furthermore, they are at higher risk for psychological conditions such as depression and anxiety, in addition to externalized behaviors such as fighting, bullying, lying, and cheating (13).
Natural disasters, including earthquakes, hurricanes, and floods, as well as man-made disasters such as acts of terrorism, can have horrifying consequences, often resulting in the destruction of homes, schools, and entire communities.
These traumatic events often force children and their families into temporary shelters or unfamiliar living situations, and the loss of property and displacement that follows can leave lasting emotional damage (15). For many children, the trauma extends far beyond the immediate loss of their home and property, as they may come to view the world as being an unpredictable and unsafe place.
Medical trauma occurs when a child experiences a serious accident or life-threatening illness (16). The trauma often stems from the physical injuries or illness itself and the fear and uncertainty that surround medical procedures and diagnoses.
Hospitalizations, surgeries, or long-term treatments can be particularly distressing for young children and adolescents, who may struggle to understand the nature of their condition or the need for treatment.
Medical trauma can persist long after the physical recovery process is complete, often manifesting as chronic stress or phobias related to medical environments (17). Children may develop a heightened fear of doctors, hospitals, or medical procedures, which is why it’s essential to provide clear communication, emotional support, and comfort in order to restore their sense of safety and security.
Traumatic separation occurs when a child experiences the sudden or violent loss of a loved one or a significant absence due to circumstances such as parental deployment to the military (18). These events can be particularly distressing for children, often evoking feelings of abandonment, grief, and confusion, particularly when the event is unexpected or involves violence.
For children, the emotional impact of traumatic separation often emerges as attachment insecurity, heightened anxiety, and difficulties forming or maintaining relationships later in life (19). Without adequate support, they may struggle to process their emotions in a healthy way, which can result in feelings of disorientation and prolonged grief.
Children who endure refugee or war experiences face profound forms of trauma that deeply affect their physical, emotional, and psychological well-being (20).
These experiences often start with exposure to violence, persecution, or conflict in their home countries, which may include witnessing or being victims of acts of war. This trauma is further compounded by challenges of displacement, such as long journeys, the loss of loved ones, and the uncertainty of starting over in a new place (21).
After resettlement, children may experience isolation, insecurity, and fear as they adjust to unfamiliar surroundings and adapt to new cultures. Without proper support, this lingering sense of instability can potentially contribute to long-term psychological issues such as depressive symptoms and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) (22).
Read more: 10 Signs of Trauma Bonding
The effects of childhood trauma depend on a variety of factors such as when the trauma occurred, the type of trauma experienced, and the presence of supportive relationships during the healing process. Seeking treatment as early as possible is essential for reducing the psychological consequences while helping you develop the coping skills needed for healing and growth (23).
The impact of trauma in childhood can vary depending on the developmental stage in which it occurs, with research suggesting that transitions in early to mid-childhood – particularly around the age of 10 – can increase vulnerability to adverse experiences (24).
Early childhood and adolescence are critical periods where the brain undergoes rapid growth, and trauma during these times can take a detrimental toll on a child’s emotional stability, sense of identity, and ability to form and maintain relationships (25).
However, the impact of trauma can differ for every individual, regardless of their age. Factors such as having a strong support system, positive parental involvement, and access to resources play a critical role in how trauma is processed, which means that even those affected at a young age can recover with the right interventions (24).
Unresolved childhood trauma can manifest itself in several ways, often impacting a person psychologically, physically, and socially (3). While manifestations of trauma vary from person to person, here are the most common signs of unhealed childhood trauma to look out for (25, 26):
If you or someone you know is exhibiting these signs, it’s important to seek guidance from a mental health professional trained in trauma or trauma-informed care. They can provide the resources and tools you need to process trauma safely and healthily, while also offering proper support along the way.
Neglecting your childhood trauma can have negative consequences that last into adulthood. The emotional impact often results in low self-esteem, challenges with trust, and difficulties maintaining healthy relationships (25).
Adverse childhood experiences are linked to a greater risk of developing disorders that are caused by childhood trauma such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), substance use, and depression (27). They may also result in poor functional outcomes during the transition into adulthood, such as struggling to hold a job or social isolation (27).
Furthermore, exposure to interpersonal or domestic violence is particularly concerning during childhood, with research showing that children who are exposed to such trauma may be more likely to perpetuate or experience similar behaviors in adulthood (13).
While every trauma experience is unique, early intervention remains the most effective way to heal, break negative patterns, and establish a foundation for a healthier, more fulfilling life.
Read more: What Makes Trauma-Informed Yoga So Beneficial?
Recognizing your childhood traumas can be an important step toward healing and breaking free from negative patterns. While the healing process can be challenging, it’s essential to improve your emotional well-being and overall quality of life.
The best way to process childhood trauma is to seek guidance from a mental health professional, particularly someone who specializes in the treatment of trauma.
Speaking with a therapist in a supportive environment can help create a space in which difficult emotions can be more safely and freely explored. In addition, if something unexpected arises while processing trauma, a professional can offer the proper guidance and tools to support every aspect of your healing journey.
While professional support is the most effective approach, methods such as journaling or self-reflection can also be helpful first steps. Writing down thoughts and feelings may help uncover emotions that were previously unnoticed, providing insights into what may need healing (28).
Working through childhood trauma is a highly personal, complex process that looks different for each individual and often involves a range of therapeutic approaches.
Trauma-focused psychotherapy with elements of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is often the starting point for trauma treatment (29). Other evidence-based approaches such as narrative exposure therapy and cognitive processing therapy have also shown promising results, particularly when conducted in an individual setting, rather than a group (29).
Furthermore, body-based trauma treatments such as eye movement desensitization and restructuring (EMDR) and somatic experiencing can help release trauma that is deeply ingrained (29, 30). While research on these therapies is still evolving, they may be beneficial for those who haven’t found relief through more traditional approaches.
Ultimately, the best path to healing is highly individualized. Working alongside a mental health professional can help guide you toward the most effective and safe therapeutic approach, which allows you to work through trauma at your own pace.
For additional support on your healing journey, the BetterMe app offers an abundance of mental health resources, including somatic emotional release exercises.
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Yes, healing from childhood trauma is absolutely possible, although it’s important to understand that recovery is a deeply personal journey.
The timeline for healing can vary widely based on factors such as the type of trauma, how it was processed, and how long it has been unresolved. For some people, it may take months or even years, but with time and hard work, healing is achievable.
It’s important to remember that the healing process is rarely ever linear and setbacks are common. However, having the support of a mental health professional can help you build greater resilience and self-awareness. With the right support and self-compassion, you can make meaningful progress at every stage of your healing journey.
Childhood trauma refers to any event that causes significant emotional, physical, or psychological harm or distress to a child (3). This can include abuse, neglect, loss of a loved one, exposure to violence, and natural disasters. However, it’s important to recognize that not all children who are exposed to the same trauma will necessarily experience the effects in the same way. Trauma is deeply personal and complex, and each child’s response can be influenced by factors such as the presence of healthy support systems, coping strategies, and their developmental stage (24). For many people with unresolved trauma, it may manifest itself physically in the body as muscle tension, discomfort, or even chronic pain (31). It can also appear in the nervous system, triggering trauma responses as a reaction to threatening or dangerous situations (32). Body-based approaches such as somatic experiencing may release this stored tension, using the mind-body connection to process trauma more holistically (30). Crying can be a natural emotional release, allowing you to release pent-up tension, distress, and negative emotions healthily. While crying alone may not be enough to fully resolve trauma, it can be a useful self-soothing technique for expressing difficult emotions and providing temporary emotional relief (33).Frequently Asked Questions
What counts as childhood trauma?
Where is trauma stored in the body?
Does crying release trauma?
Childhood trauma can take many forms, so if the 8 childhood traumas listed above don’t fully resonate with you, remember that these categories are only meant as guidelines. Trauma affects every individual differently, which means that what could be distressing for one person may not have the same impact on another.
If you’re struggling with past trauma or other mental health challenges, you should reach out to a mental health professional for proper guidance and support.
For more mental health resources, consider exploring the BetterMe app which offers valuable tips, tutorials, and tools to help support your well-being.
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