Myths and Facts about Children who have Experienced Trauma

MYTHS AND FACTS ABOUT CHILDREN WHO HAVE EXPERIENCED TRAUMA

Myth: Children are resilient and will "bounce back" after traumatic event.

Fact: Children have no "special ability" to heal after trauma.

Myth: Over time, children will simply forget about what happened.

Fact: Even the very young children remember and are affected by traumatic events.

Myths: We should not talk to children about the trauma because children will talk about it on their own if they want to.

Fact: Children take their cues from those around them. Most children will not talk about the trauma if no one else does.

Myth: Talking to children about the trauma will make them remember it more.

Fact: Talking about trauma helps children with healing.

Dr. Fenibo Braide, Psychotherapist
December, 2009