Early intervention in cases of childhood trauma : professionals’ perspectives and perceptions

Abstract

This dissertation focuses on the perceived impact of early intervention with children who have experienced trauma in their childhood. In this context, trauma could include experiencing violence or abuse, and/or witnessing violence in the home or community. Studies show that when one does not deal with their childhood traumas in the long-term, many physical and mental complications may result (Ellenbogen et al., 2014). For this reason, this study takes a more in-depth look at the way this issue is perceived by different professionals within the child welfare field. To do so semi-structured interviews were conducted to collect rich and nuanced data from 3 professionals. Data was analysed using thematic analysis. The findings underline the significance of early intervention in cases of childhood trauma. Early intervention and psychological assessment are highlighted as crucial elements in addressing developmental challenges and building positive pathways in traumatized children. Detecting trauma at an early stage allows professionals to provide tailored support and interventions to mitigate the long-term effects. The study also emphasizes the essential role of parents in the early detection and intervention process, underscoring the importance of equipping parents with knowledge and resources to actively engage in the detection process and provide support. Overall, this study contributes to our understanding of the benefits of early intervention in childhood trauma and underscores the importance of collaboration between professionals and parents in promoting the well-being of affected children.