Childhood Trauma Case Study

The brain relies on the development of neurons to transmit signals through the brain. When these neurons are over-stimulated or over activated the brain does not develop in its correct manner. Trauma is one way that affects this process. The trauma tells the amygdala that the person is experiencing some form of danger. The amygdala is responsible for sending signals throughout the brain telling it how to respond to the fear. Whether it is to run (flight) fight or freeze; the body responds. Those who suffer from sexual or physical abuse their brain’s energy focus on safety and the need to survive. Chronic fear projects the induvial to a hypervigilant state which cause the brain to freeze at the stage of trauma. This prolonged state of trauma impacts growth, emotions, socialization, and cognition. The social worker has to assess the

The first years of the child development is crucial for their projected adult life. Malnutrition stunts the development of the brain slowing development physically and psychologically. An infant relies on healthy caregiver attachments. This process teaches the infant how its environment will respond to their needs. When the infant is exposed to long-term neglect of needs; they learn to self sooth within their selves. This lack of attachment creates the impact of trauma onto ones life.
As an adolescent its symptoms are seem in behavior disorder such as Conduct Disorder and ADHD. Symptoms of trauma present dissociation, disengagement, bullying, depression, and anxiety. As negative coping skill dissociation from ones environment allows for survival and a “checkout” from reality. Social dysregulation removes the ability to show empathy and vulnerabilities; a way to “protect them”. Social worker’s awareness of symptoms and pathologies prepare for assessments, treatment and