Developmental Trauma

Developmental Trauma

Occurs during early life or critical developmental periods and results in delayed or abnormal development of Brain Networks.  

Causes include:  

o   Inadequate attentive care, touch, and co-regulation during child development 
o   Disruption in Parent-Child Attachment
o   Child Maltreatment – Interpersonal Victimization (physical, emotional, sexual abuse) 
o   Chaotic Home Environment; Family Violence

Whether early life trauma results in developmental delay depends on:

o   the person’s stage of development, and
o   the frequency, severity, and duration of the Trauma, and
o   the person’s resources to buffer the trauma (emotional, physical, and most importantly, relational resources)

SOURCE:  Bruce D. Perry, MD PhD
The Boy Who Was Raised as a Dog