Trauma-Informed Care

Abstract At least half of all American children are impacted by trauma at some time during their lives, including exposures to abuse, violence, poverty, discrimination, and parental illness. Science has repeatedly shown that adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) affect human beings across the full spectrum of growth, development, and well-being. This includes an impact on a person’s physiology, physical and mental health, and even their parenting style and ability. Children from marginalized backgrounds or those who experience violence are at a particularly high risk for trauma, while parents with a history of ACEs face unique challenges as adults with their own children. Given their family-centered focus, pediatric providers are uniquely positioned to identify and respond promptly to childhood and/or family trauma; thus, providing trauma-informed care (TIC). TIC is a specific form of medical care that not only assesses and recognizes the effects of trauma on kids but also allows providers to react and respond to traumatic stress on entire families and colleagues. It is a tool that pediatric clinicians can use in practice to improve care and outcomes for children and families. The effective use of TIC requires that clinicians commit to a raised awareness of the effects of adverse childhood experiences, improved education on trauma and effective care, and consistent application of trauma-informed strategies in their own personal practice.