Home

Child Psychopathy and the Role of Trauma in Development and Treatment

Child psychopathy is a controversial yet more and more studied topic within psychology and criminal behavior research. While the term “psychopath” is saved for adults, children can exhibit traits associated with psychopathy, including cruelty, persistent lying, impatience, and lack of empathy toward others (Bartol, Bartol 2021). Understanding how these traits develop, the role of trauma, and early interventions is important in addressing potential long-term behavioral issues and criminal activities.

The Relationship Between Trauma and Psychopathy

A major argument in child psychopathy research is whether these traits can even be attributed to genetic predispositions or as a response to environmental influences, like trauma or parental styles, or a combination of factors.

·      Genetic Predispositions: Some children display psychopathic traits despite being raised in loving and stable homes. Studies show that these children may have structural and functional differences in brain regions associated with emotion processing, such as a smaller, less active amygdala, responsible for the ability to recognize fear and distress in others, and struggling to regulating emotions (Yang, Raine, Narr, Colletti, Toga 2009). This could suggest that for some individuals, psychopathy may be an genetic condition rather than a learned behavior.

·      Trauma-Induced Lack of Empathy: Children raised in highly abusive or neglectful environments may develop psychopathic traits as a survival mechanism. Researchers have found that children who grow up in violent or unstable homes often suppress emotional responses to cope with adversity. Making it more difficult to differentiate, “…adolescents often appear callous and narcissistic, sometimes to hide their own fear and anxiety” (Bartol, Bartol 2021). Over time, emotional detachment can evolve into lack of empathy type traits, making it difficult for them to also feel empathy or guilt.

Parenting, Trauma, and Aggression in Psychopathic Children

Research highlights the complicated interactions between parenting styles, trauma, and aggression in children with psychopathic traits. One study examined the impact of both positive and negative parental affect on child aggression. “Reactive aggression in children high on psychopathic traits appears less responsive to variations in either positive or negative parenting” (Yeh, Chen, Raine, Baker, Jacobson 2011).

·      Reactive vs. Proactive Aggression: Children with psychopathic traits tend to show stable levels of reactive aggression regardless of their parents’ emotional warmth or harshness (Yeh, Chen, Raine, Baker, Jacobson 2011). However, proactive aggression—deliberate, reward/goal focused aggression—“was more strongly associated with negative parental affect in children with higher psychopathic traits” (Yeh, Chen, Raine, Baker, Jacobson 2011) .

·      Resilience to Parenting: While most children become less aggressive with warm, supportive parenting, it is not well-known if youths with psychopathy can manipulate these parenting styles or if there is any positive progression at all (Yeh, Chen, Raine, Baker, Jacobson 2012). This suggests that traditional parenting interventions may not be as effective in curbing aggressive behavior in this population. Because of this, early intervention strategies should be used along with standard parenting techniques.

Emerging Treatment Strategies for Children with Psychopathic Traits

Even though it is difficult to treat psychopathy, new therapeutic methods show promising results, especially when they are used in adolescence.

·      Reward-Based Behavioral Programs:  Research has shown that individuals with CU traits are not responsive to punishment. Rather, they are more motivated by the use of incentives. The Mendota Juvenile Treatment Center (MJTC) in Wisconsin uses a reward system where the positive behaviors are rewarded and not the negative ones. Inmates are awarded items like Pokémon cards or pizza nights based on good behavior, a system aimed at cultivating cognitive empathy and social skills (NPR 2017).

·      Cognitive Empathy Training: Although these children may never be able to feel others’ pain in the emotional way, they can be taught cognitive empathy (the ability to understand the impact of one’s actions on others) (NPR 2017). The goal of the therapists is to make children understand and repeat better social habits so that they can decrease their anti-social behavior.

These interventions provide a hopeful alternative to punishment based approaches, which often do not deter antisocial behavior in psychopathic children. There is growing support for the early recognition of psychopathic traits; not to label these children but to intervene before their behavior escalates.

A Need for Early Intervention and a Shift in Perspective

The study of child psychopathy presents both challenges and opportunities. While traditional parenting strategies and punishments often fail, new treatment models offer promising results by focusing on cognitive training, positive reinforcement, and neurological interventions. Understanding the complex relationship between trauma and psychopathy is essential to developing compassionate and effective treatment strategies.

Overall, these interventions offer a more optimistic option than the punitive measures which have the reverse effect of discouraging antisocial behavior in psychopathic children. By addressing the issue early, we can potentially steer these children on a better path, protect society, and provide them with the tools they need to interact with daily society successfully and safely.

 References

Bartol, C. R., & Bartol, A. M. (2021). Forensic Psychology and Criminal Behavior.

Hagerty, B., & Cornish, A. (2017, May 24). Scientists develop new treatment strategies for child psychopaths. NPR. https://www.npr.org/2017/05/24/529893128/scientists-develop-new-treatment-strategies-for-child-psychopaths 

Lashbrook, A. (2021). There are no “child psychopaths” because we can’t diagnose them. yet. (vice). There Are No “Child Psychopaths” Because We Can’t Diagnose Them. Yet. (Vice) | Mechanisms of Disinhibition (MoD) Laboratory. https://modlab.yale.edu/news/there-are-no-child-psychopaths-because-we-cant-diagnose-them-yet-vice 

Yang Y, Raine A, Narr KL, Colletti P, Toga AW. Localization of deformations within the amygdala in individuals with psychopathy. Arch Gen Psychiatry. 2009 Sep;66(9):986-94. doi: 10.1001/archgenpsychiatry.2009.110. PMID: 19736355; PMCID: PMC3192811.

Yeh, M. T., Chen, P., Raine, A., Baker, L. A., & Jacobson, K. C. (2011). Child psychopathic traits moderate relationships between parental affect and child aggression. Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3185247/

Theories of Crime and Why There is No One Size Fits All Theory (CJ 725)

Each theory of crime tries to explain why there is crime in our society. Some of the theories are specific whereas others are more broad. While they all have some similarities and differences, they generally share the same goal of explaining why crime exists. No theory is completely wrong because all of the theories offer answers from a different perspective. Crime can be caused by any number of reasons: “poverty, lack of opportunity, inadequate education, family dysfunction, peer pressure, mental health issues, and societal inequalities” (FBI - UCR, 2012).  Looking at crime through more than one theory can explain more than looking at it through one single theory. 

Two examples of theories of crime Our textbook defines Social Learning Theory as, “A theory of human behavior based on learning from watching others in the social environment. This leads to an individual's development of his or her perceptions, thoughts, expectancies, competencies, and values.” (Barton & Bartol, 2020). Another theory from our textbook is Strain Theory. Strain theory is defined as, “A prominent sociological explanation for crime based on Robert Merton’s theory that crime and delinquency occur when there is a perceived discrepancy between the materialistic values and goals cherished and held in high esteem by society and the availability of the legitimate means or reaching their goals.” (Barton & Bartol, 2020). Both of these theories present legitimate explanations for why there is crime. Someone growing up in a “rough area” may learn from a young age that crime is simply a part of life and something to be expected. In this situation, Social Learning Theory explains that someone simply does what they see their friends and or family doing. Strain Theory explains that someone who was laid off may need to steal food so that they won't starve.  Also, someone with limited means may steal to gain items that are socially valuable but that they cannot afford. In both of these situations people commit crimes, but for different reasons.  People may also commit crimes for several reasons, and the different reasons may be explained by different theories. Social Learning Theory and Strain Theory may both be helpful in understanding why individuals commit crimes. 

I feel that these theories play into another related topic, the age-old question nature v nurture. Simply put for the context of this post, the question is: are people born bad (criminals), or are they born blank and learn their criminal behavior? In this debate, I generally fall on the side of nurture. Of course, there are exceptions to this belief, for example psychopaths, but they are the exception rather than the rule. The environment you are in shapes how you see the world and your role in it. If a person’s parents are criminals and in and out of jail, it is likely that the person will start to see that as just part of life and may very well follow in their parents’ footsteps. This of course may not happen and someone could grow up and realize that a life of crime is not best. In this case, no theory of crime would explain the behavior because there would be no criminal activity despite the factors that often lead people to commit crimes.

A trauma perspective is also helpful in looking at how these theories explain crime as a result of nurture or environment. A specific person’s environment or experiences may cause that person to experience trauma, which could result in mental illness and in some cases criminal behavior.  However, groups of people can also experience community level trauma that can cause “damaged social relations/networks, elevation of destructive social norms, a low sense of collective political and social efficacy, and widespread sense of fear and shame.” (Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority).  This trauma would help explain Social Learning Theory. Community level trauma can also result in “intergenerational poverty, long-term unemployment, business/job relocation, limited employment opportunities, and overall community disinvestment.” (ICJIA).  Looking from the community level perspective, both Social Learning Theory and Strain Theory provide explanations for why some people in certain communities may turn to crime more often than in others.

There are so many theories because there is no one reason that people commit crimes. There are endless circumstances that may create criminal activity and intent and a theory to explain it. Crime is complex and there is no one single cause for it.  The best understanding of crime must be based on an analysis looking at the problem from many different perspectives and using many different theories.

Citation:

Bartol, C. R., & Bartol, A. M. (2020). Criminal behavior: A psychological approach (12th ed.). Pearson Education.

“Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority.” ICJIA, ILLINOIS CRIMINAL JUSTICE INFORMATION AUTHORITY, 2020, icjia.illinois.gov/researchhub/articles/individual-and-community-trauma-individual-experiences-in-collective-environments. 

“Variables Affecting Crime.” FBI - Uniform Crime Report, U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation, 5 Nov. 2012, ucr.fbi.gov/hate-crime/2011/resources/variables-affecting-crime. 

Book Review: “Trauma and Recovery” by Judith Herman

In Judith Herman’s seminal work on the study of pain and suffering, she explains the complexities of how trauma inserts itself into the brain’s function and daily life. The work was originally published in 1992 but has been updated with new findings as recently as 2022, to include conclusions made in the subject and partially inspired by the original publication. What’s most significant about this work to the subject of forensic behavioral analysis is its insights into how trauma “is an inherently political enterprise because it calls attention to the experience of oppressed people” (Herman, pg. 345), which aligns with the criminological theory that environment and circumstances are what’s behind an individual’s motivation to commit crime. This is how trauma can predict future criminal activity.

In one chapter, the connection between these two is especially clear: chapter five, which discusses child abuse. The book chronicles many victim accounts, and when grouped together like in this chapter, they present a whole image of what trauma does to the mind of people who face it, particularly children. Dissociation, social isolation, and mistrust of others are all common characteristics in the abused child, but one characteristic stands out as especially predictive of future criminal activity: “When it is impossible to avoid the reality of the abuse, the child must construct some system of meaning that justifies it” (Herman, pg. 150). As mentioned above, and exhibited in Herman’s description of the abused child, a prevailing theory for criminal behavior (“social learning theory”) is that we model what we observe in our environment and continue to let these behaviors exist in our environments when they go without punishment, allowing, for example, the continuous cycle of abuse and trauma to exist within generations of families (Rousseau, Module One).

Trauma, abuse specifically, can be detrimental to anybody, but is especially harmful for children who grow up in an abusive environment and aren’t aware that abuse is antisocial behavior. They develop a “malignant sense of inner badness [that] is often camouflaged by the abused child’s persistent attempts to be good. In the effort to placate the abusers, the child victim often becomes a superb performer” (Herman, pg. 154). This can develop into antisocial behavior in the child, since they aren’t aware of proactive ways of functioning in everyday life, which presents to those outside of the toxic environment as mentally ill behavior that is a product of the abuse. A child’s social environment, along with the cognitive impairment caused by the child’s own beliefs on what proactive behavior looks like, leads them to commit antisocial behavior. It should come as no surprise that nearly seventy percent of youth involved in the juvenile justice system show signs of mental illness/distress (Rousseau, Module Four).

To conclude the chapter, Herman explores how traumatized children grow into adulthood and how they cope with their memories of abuse. Though the possible generational trauma that may occur is persistent, Herman notices a different trend: many survivors go to great lengths to avoid treating others as they were treated. Many express fear and anxiety over their interpersonal relationships, and “as survivors attempt to [engage in] adult relationships, the psychological defenses formed in childhood become increasingly maladaptive” (Herman, pgs. 166-67). The conclusion that Herman comes to is that a changing perspective on trauma, and increased access to mental health resources, can help reduce the strain and impact that trauma may have on the mind and body. It’s clear while reading that the text is the foundation of our current understanding on the topic of trauma, along with being multifaceted in its application towards academic disciplines. Pain and suffering occur in everyone’s life, so by better understanding the effect of some of the most harmful forms of pain on a person’s daily function then we

References

Herman, J.L. (2022). “Trauma and Recovery: The Aftermath of Violence – From Domestic Abuse to Political Terror.” Hachette Book Group, Inc.

Rousseau, D. (2025). “Forensic Behavioral Analysis: Module One.” Boston University.

Rousseau, D. (2025). “Forensic Behavioral Analysis: Module Four.” Boston University.

Trauma and Self-Care: A Clinical Mental Health Perspective

In the field of mental health counseling, trauma is an ever-present reality that shapes the lives of both clients and clinicians. Trauma can take many forms—chronic childhood adversity, acute incidents of violence, or systemic oppression—and its impact is profound, influencing cognition, emotions, and relationships. As a counselor, I see firsthand how unprocessed trauma manifests in anxiety, depression, and maladaptive coping mechanisms. While addressing trauma in clinical work is essential, the emotional toll on professionals in this field cannot be overlooked. This is where self-care becomes not just beneficial but necessary.

Self-care in mental health work is often misunderstood as an indulgence rather than a survival strategy. Burnout and secondary traumatic stress (STS) are common in counseling professions, as absorbing others' pain can lead to emotional exhaustion. To counter this, counselors must engage in intentional self-care practices that go beyond surface-level relaxation. This includes regular clinical supervision, where processing difficult cases prevents emotional overload, and peer support networks that provide a safe space to share experiences and mitigate feelings of isolation.

Mindfulness and self-compassion also play a significant role in mitigating the impact of trauma exposure. Research supports that mindfulness-based practices, such as grounding exercises and guided meditation, can help counselors regulate their own nervous systems, making them more present and effective for their clients. Setting boundaries, both emotionally and physically, is another crucial element of self-care. This means establishing realistic caseloads, taking necessary breaks, and allowing oneself to disconnect from work at the end of the day.

Ultimately, addressing trauma—whether in clients or within ourselves—requires a balanced approach that integrates professional support, mindful self-awareness, and structured self-care routines. In a field where helping others is the primary focus, ensuring our own well-being is equally critical. Sustainable mental health work depends on our ability to care for ourselves so we can continue to care for others.

Below, I've attached some resources for self-care that I highly recommend!

• American Psychological Association (APA) - Self-Care for Psychologists
  https://www.apa.org/careers/early-career/self-care

  • Offers guidance on managing stress, burnout, and emotional fatigue.

• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) - Mental Health Self-Care
  https://www.nami.org/Your-Journey/Individuals-with-Mental-Illness/Managing-Stress

  • Provides stress management techniques and self-care strategies.

• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) - Trauma-Informed Self-Care
  https://www.samhsa.gov/trauma-violence-types/self-care

  • Focuses on self-care practices for professionals dealing with trauma survivors.

• National Child Traumatic Stress Network (NCTSN) - Self-Care for Providers
  https://www.nctsn.org/resources/self-care-resources

  • Provides specific self-care tools for those working with trauma-exposed individuals.

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) - Coping with Stress and Self-Care
  https://www.cdc.gov/mentalhealth/stress-coping/selfcare.htm

  • Discusses self-care techniques backed by public health research.

Gratitude Journaling: A Healing Strategy in the Criminal Justice Field

Dealing with trauma is inevitable in the criminal justice field. From those working on the ground to stop crime to those who deal directly with perpetrators of crime to the victims themselves, everyone within the system faces challenges that leave emotional scars on them. The effects of trauma may look differently from person to person but can lead to physical and mental exhaustion, a deep sense of disconnect from the world around you, or burnout, which has a host of negative effects in and of itself. Those working in this field may describe that it feels like they are carrying a massive weight on their shoulders to keep those around them safe. However, we can use simple tools to mitigate these feelings, including gratitude journaling. 

Gratitude journaling is a practice of regularly writing down things that you are grateful for. Studies have shown this practice significantly promotes greater resilience, reduces stress, and improves overall mental health and well-being. By regularly focusing on the positive aspects of our lives, we can rewire our brains to counteract the effects of trauma in high-stress criminal justice professions (Weldon, 2020). 

What this looks like

You’ll need a notebook and a few minutes each day, making this an accessible tool for just about everyone! 

1. Set aside time: Dedicate just a few minutes a day to write freely and uninterrupted.
2. Be specific: Write at least three things you are grateful for. These can be rather simple. 
3. Focus on the present: Practice mindfulness by acknowledging what is happening in the present moment. 

For those working in this field, the impact of trauma is an unfortunate reality but gratitude journaling is a simple, accessible tool for healing. While it can increase long-term well-being by about ten percent, it is important to note that this practice should not be used in place of professional mental health services, especially for individuals dealing with severe trauma (Penn State Health, n.d.). Regularly practicing gratitude for just a few minutes each day can complement, rather than replace, more comprehensive forms of healing. 

References 

Penn State Health. (n.d.). 10 amazing statistics to celebrate National Gratitude Month. Penn 

State Health. Retrieved February 22, 2025, from https://prowellness.childrens.pennstatehealth.org/10-amazing-statistics-to-celebrate-national-gratitude-month/

Smith, L. (2022). Daily Gratitude Journaling Prompts [Photograph]. The Good Body. https://www.thegoodbody.com/wp-

content/uploads/2022/11/daily-gratitude-journal-prompts.jpg

Weldon, K. (2020, January 29). The neuroscience of gratitude and trauma. Psychology Today.

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/expressive-trauma-integration/202001/the-neuroscience-gratitude-and-trauma

Lifting Weights: A Path to Healing from Trauma

Trauma lives in both the mind and body. “ To people who are reliving a trauma, nothing makes sense; they are trapped in a life-or-death situation, a state of paralyzing fear or blind rage. Mind and body are constantly aroused, as if they are in imminent danger”(Van der Kolk, 2014, p.197). While traditional approaches to healing include therapies and medication, weightlifting is yet another avenue for trauma recovery that is overlooked. 

Similar to activities such as yoga and mindfulness, weightlifting offers some of the same benefits. “Activities such as yoga and mindfulness can help to redirect the firing of neurons, or even create new neurons through two processes, called neuroplasticity and neurogenesis”(Rousseau, 2024, p.9). Lifting weights has been shown to affect similar pathways as yoga, mindfulness, and meditation. In addition the act of lifting weights has been shown to be “ an effective adjunct intervention in the treatment of psychological trauma and trauma-related disorders. Weight lifting has been associated with improvements in symptoms of PTSD (Whitworth et al., 2017, 2019), reductions in substance use (Unhjem et al., 2016), improved self-efficacy (O'Connor et al., 2010), increased social connection, and the formation of empowering self-identity in the aftermath of trauma (Nowakowski-Sims et al., 2023)”(Vigue et al., 2023, p.1). It is also worth noting that engaging in regular exercise “is associated with lower sympathetic nervous system and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis reactivity”(Anderson and Shivakumar, 2013, p.1). This system that is positively affected controls the release of cortisol and adrenaline. Both of these hormones are often dysregulated in those with a history of trauma. Much research also points to the fact that weight lifting causes the release of endorphins and serotonin which helps with mood stabilization and emotional resilience.  

Weightlifting as a path to healing from trauma provides many benefits. These include leaving individuals feeling empowered, body awareness and connection, structure and routine, and helps to get out pent up energy and aggression. All of these benefits are helpful in successfully healing from trauma. Another benefit is that weightlifting is more accessible than other forms of healing such as therapies and medications prescribed by doctors. 

While weightlifting has many benefits in healing from trauma it is important to note that healing is a journey that needs a combination of trauma-informed practices. Weightlifting combined with other methods such as therapies and medications can be more powerful in healing than just the use of one intervention. Overall weightlifting represents a powerful method for trauma healing. Through weightlifting individuals can be empowered and  reconnect with their mind and bodies leading to a sense of control. 

References:

Anderson, E., & Shivakumar, G. (2013). Effects of exercise and physical activity on anxiety. Frontiers in psychiatry, 4, 27. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2013.00027

Eva Nowakowski-Sims, Mariah Rooney, Dana Vigue, Savannah Woods,

Eva Nowakowski-Sims, Mariah Rooney, Dana Vigue, Savannah Woods,

A grounded theory of weight lifting as a healing strategy for trauma,Mental Health and Physical Activity,Volume 25,2023,100521,ISSN 1755-2966, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mhpa.2023.100521.

Rousseau, D. (2024). Module 3: Neurobiology of Trauma Boston University

Van der Kolk, B. A., & Pratt, S. (2021). The body keeps the score: Brain, mind, and body in the healing of trauma. Penguin Random House Audio. 

Vigue, D., Rooney, M., Nowakowski-Sims, E., & Woods, S. (2023). Trauma informed weight lifting: considerations for coaches, trainers and gym environments. Frontiers in psychology, 14, 1224594. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1224594

Surviving the Storm: PTSD and The Impacts of Natural Disasters on Communities

Natural disasters impact communities in more ways than are represented. In the media, it is common to see the destruction of small business stores, homes, and public places like libraries, schools, and churches, however,r this is just the physical aftermath of disasters such as hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes, and other devastating events. There are times that we will hear about the emotional and psychological responses of members of communities after a natural disaster. Still, there is insufficient focus on the long-term consequences of these events on some individuals. Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a disorder where people relive the traumatic events they endured through recurring and unwanted memories, flashbacks, and nightmares (Rousseau, 2024). There can also be physiological responses from the body such as intense and excessive sweating, difficulty sleeping, and losing interest in hobbies and normal day activities. PTSD is a serious disorder that individuals can develop after experiencing and living through a natural disaster. 

There are two examples of natural disasters that are important in understanding the development of PTSD and other trauma-related responses to traumatic events. The tsunami that devastated Sri Lanka in 2004 and the constant struggles with natural disasters for Haitians are just two instances where fear, resilience, and restoration all take place. The tsunami that hit Sri Lanka in 2004 was a shock for those living in the community, but the realization of what had happened did not come until later. Watters (2011) mentions that not even days after the disaster, children were more eager to get back to school and the classrooms than they were to process their emotions about what had just happened to them. Sri Lankans also tried to abandon their refugee camps days after the disaster and preferred to go back to the ruins of their villages than to depend on family, friends, or others for any help. This is a sign of avoidance and being "in denial" as Watters (2011) calls it. There were a few responses to the natural disaster that were quite noteworthy. Opposite to common Western responses, Sri Lankans were more likely to experience physical symptoms after devastating events such as headaches, joint or muscle issues, or pains in the chest. In addition to this, Sri Lankans saw the negative consequences of natural disasters in terms of the damage done to social relationships, rather than pathological reactions (anxiety, fear, numbing, etc.) as Western culture does (Watters, 2011). These differences in responses and reactions to traumatic events call for more resources oriented toward resilience and building back what has been lost. Possible strategies could include group therapy, mindful practices, and more education on how to cope with physical, emotional, and psychological reactions to natural disasters and devastating events such as the tsunami in Sri Lanka. 

In Haiti, it is common to hear of hurricanes, tsunamis, and earthquakes that destroy the country and leave them with unfortunate impacts on the community and its members. The impacts of a hurricane are often associated with economic factors such as poverty, inequalities, and housing crises (Nicolas et al., 2010). Haiti is a country that is vulnerable to natural disasters where a lack of resources and lack of preparedness is not in favor of the inhabitants. However, Nicolas and colleagues (2010) emphasize that family, religion, community, and unique cultural practices are what help with their resilience to the negative consequences of natural disasters. Rousseau (2013) promotes resilience through the practice of yoga for Haitians during the post-earthquake period. This trauma-informed integrative mindfulness program (TIMBo) seeks to alleviate the symptoms of trauma and to offer strategies for prevention. By encouraging these practices, coping with and managing emotional, physical, and psychological reactions to traumatic events may offer preventative strategies.

References

Nicolas, G., Schwartz, B., & Pierre, E. (2010). Weathering the storm like bamboo: The strengths of Haitians in coping with natural disasters. In International handbook of emotional healing: Ritual and practices for resilience after mass trauma. Greenwood Publishing Group, Inc.

Rousseau, D. (2024) Module 1 and 4: Introduction to trauma, pathways to recovery - understanding approaches to trauma treatment. Blackboard. BU.edu. 

Rousseau. D, & Jackson, D. (2013). Promoting resilience through yoga: Profiling the implementation of trauma-informed integrative mindfulness programming in post-earthquake Haiti. Journal of Yoga Service. 

Watters, E. (2011). The wave that brought PTSD to Sri Lanka. In Crazy Like Us. Robinson.

Strategies for Self-Care

No matter the type of trauma people experience, its effects on the brain and body can profoundly impact their lives. Van der Kolk (2014) discovered that trauma is not only a past event, but "the imprint left by that experience on mind, brain, and body" which "has ongoing consequences for how the human organism manages to survive in the present." Trauma is complex and systemic, impacting personal lives, relationships, careers, and interactions with the world (Rousseau, 2024). It can alter life paths, impair personal abilities, and cause physical and neurological damage that may or may not be repairable, with effects extending to hospitals, courts, and the criminal justice system (Rousseau, 2024).

Practicing self-care becomes essential when navigating the aftermath of trauma. Regular engagement in self-care strategies can strengthen resilience through social support and promote posttraumatic growth. Rousseau (2024) notes that self-care can provide a sense of control, allow individuals to pursue meaningful goals, and encourage healthy lifestyle choices. When developing a self-care practice, it is important to "be present and to engage in activities that nourish your mind, body, and soul" (Rousseau, 2024).

Self-care activities can be personalized to fit individual preferences, needs, or lifestyles. Examples of ideas for self-care include:

• Develop mindfulness practices such as meditation
• Do yoga
• Exercise
• Take a few deep breaths
• Prepare a nice meal
• Spend time with a good friend
• Read a good book
• Spend quality time with your family
• Get outside and spend time in nature
• Go on a hike
• Go see the ocean
• Take a relaxing bath
• Take a walk
• Meditate
• Start a gratitude journal or list
• Get a massage
• Get outside and get some sun
• Spend time with a pet
• Journal (Rousseau, 2024)

Creating a playlist with your favorite songs can help create a calm space for relaxation. Watching comfort TV shows or movies can also help with self-care by giving your mind a break. Additionally, taking a break from social media and technology can reduce distractions, allow individuals to reconnect with themselves, and minimize constant exposure to negative content, news, comparisons, and bullying. Drawing, painting, sculpting, or other creative outlets can allow individuals to process and explore their emotions and thoughts and express their feelings that may be difficult to verbalize.

Another important aspect of self-care is separating work life from home life. This can be easier said than done, especially in jobs involving high stress and critical incident exposure, such as those in the criminal justice field. After finishing work, individuals can take 10 minutes to sit in their car, reflect on their day, and engage in deep breathing. This brief pause can create an opportunity to shift their mindset, prevent work-related issues and stress from coming home with them, and process the events of their day.

Barriers to self-care often derive from misconceptions and personal challenges related to implementing it. One common barrier is the stigma surrounding self-care, with many viewing it as selfish and lazy (Connected Health and Wellbeing, n.d.). Social media trends have also commercialized self-care, leading many to believe it is expensive.

Another barrier is a lack of knowledge or awareness about how to start a self-care routine or create an effective self-care plan. Time constraints can make it difficult for individuals to find time for themselves, especially when managing busy work schedules, family responsibilities, and numerous commitments (Connected Health and Wellbeing, n.d.). Additionally, guilt may prevent people from engaging in self-care, as they may feel guilty about prioritizing their well-being when others rely on them.

Despite barriers to self-care, it is essential to prioritize it by engaging in activities that address all areas of wellness such as emotional, financial, social, spiritual, occupational, physical, intellectual, and environmental (Rousseau, 2024). Integrating self-care activities into daily routines can empower individuals by building resilience, encouraging self-compassion, and creating a sense of control. Self-care does not have to be costly, as it often includes simple, accessible, and low-cost practices such as mindfulness, exercise, deep breathing, spending time in nature, connecting with family or friends, or journaling. By taking the time to engage in self-care, individuals can better care for themselves and show up more fully for others.

References

Connected Health and Wellbeing. (n.d.). Understanding why we neglect self-care. https://www.connectedhealthandwellbeing.com/understanding-why-we-neglect-self-care/

Griner, T. (n.d.). Self-care and wellness: The important difference that may affect your mental health. https://anxietyandbehaviornj.com/self-care-and-wellness-the-important-difference-that-may-affect-your-mental-health/

Rousseau, D. (2024). Module 1: Introduction to trauma [Lecture Notes]. Blackboard. BU MET.

Rousseau, D. (2024, December 3). Vicarious trauma and self-care [Lecture recording]. Blackboard. BU MET.

Taking the High Road: The Mindful Approach to Traumatic Experiences

It is very difficult having to deal with the debilitating effects of trauma on a daily basis.  Imagine someone living their lives to the fullest and all of a sudden, something unexpectedly happens.  They could either witness or become a victim to a crime or an accident of any sort.  They may possibly find themselves stuck in a natural disaster.  They are in a state of shock and terror as the traumatic moment happens.  It gets to a point where the person becomes frozen in fear.  Then, having to relive the moment over and over for a very long time replaying the moments in their head.  Not only does it take a toll on a person’s mental, emotional and physical health, but it can lead to harming themselves as well as their loved ones and other people.

“Recovery from trauma is a long process and can often feel both daunting and overwhelming” (Rousseau, 2024).  However, not all hope is lost as we become more informed about the effects of it.  “Although no treatment has been shown to be effective for all people who are exposed to trauma, there are several that have evidence-based efficacy” (Rousseau, 2024).  We have discussed multiple approaches to addressing trauma this semester, stemming from medications to gender-responsive approaches.  There is one we have talked about in class that I would like to discuss in particular, mindfulness.

Mindfulness is defined as “the awareness that arises when paying attention to the present moment nonjudgmentally” (Kabat-Zinn & Hanh, 2009).  It enables the person to be more aware of thoughts that can lead to post-traumatic stress symptoms.  In addition, this technique shifts their focus into something more positive.  Practicing mindfulness on a continuous basis can help the individual concentrate more on physical feelings and regulating their emotions.  Not only does it bring awareness to thoughts occurring at the exact moment, but it lessens the severity of the negative impact that traumatic events have on the individual.

People have different ways of practicing this technique.  “Mindfulness puts us in touch with the transitory nature of our feelings and perceptions” (van der Kolk, 2014, p. 209).  It can start from practicing breathing techniques, where the individual shifts their attention to their breathing patterns.  Meditation is another technique that blends in well with mindfulness, as it helps the person clear their thoughts and deepen their connection with the body, mind and soul.  One other way of utilizing mindfulness in dealing with trauma is learning to accept the experience they endured.  Through acceptance, it encourages resilience in the individual and helps them to become stronger as they continue to live their lives.

From a personal experience, I have come to find that practicing mindfulness techniques has a wide range of benefits when it comes to mental health.  As someone who practices this technique on a regular basis, it alleviates stress and it does help to regularly control your emotions.  Practicing mindfulness helps with clearing your mind and you do tend to focus more on your breathing patterns.  Taking at least 5 - 10 minutes of your time to practice this skill makes a huge difference.

To conclude this post, traumatic events change a person’s life in many different ways.  It causes the individual to have a negative perspective because they will never be the same after experiencing such event.  When the individual opens up to engaging in mindful techniques, it encourages them to accept the things they cannot change in the past.  They learn to live with what occurred and become stronger in coping with the traumatic event.  “Mindfulness not only makes it possible to survey our internal landscape with compassion and curiosity, but can also actively steer us in the right direction for self-care” (van der Kolk, 2024, p. 284).  By forming that connection within, it helps the person with self-reflection and knowing that they are stronger and more resilient than they initially thought.  “It is important to remember that a first and crucial step to recovering from trauma is to reduce the symptoms that result, allowing for a deeper healing experience” (Rousseau, 2024).  Just remember that mindfulness may not fix the problem right away.  But with time, persistence and patience, it will pay off in the long run.

Rousseau, D. (2024). Module 4: Pathways to Recovery: Understanding Approaches to Trauma Treatment. Boston University MET CJ 720. Blackboard.

Kabat-Zinn, J., & Hanh, T. N. (2009). Full catastrophe living: Using the wisdom of your body and mind to face stress, pain, and illness. Delta.

van der Kolk, B. A (2014). The body keeps the score: brain, mind, and body in the healing of trauma. https://ci.nii.ac.jp/ncid/BB19708339