Implementing Trauma-Informed Practices in Child Welfare
Date
2013
Authors
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Publisher
American Bar Association, Center on Children and the Law
Abstract
Children in care are more likely to have been exposed to multiple forms of traumatic experiences, such as physical or sexual abuse, neglect, family and/or community violence, trafficking or commercial sexual
exploitation, bullying, or loss of loved ones. In addition to the circumstances of abuse or neglect that led to their removal, children may be subject to further stresses after entering the system, including separation from family, friends, and community, as well as the uncertainty of their future. A growing body of scientific literature indicates the success of trauma-informed child welfare systems in treating child traumatic stress. Trauma-informed systems are structured with an understanding of the causes
and effects of traumatic experiences, along with practices intended to support recovery rather than exacerbate vulnerabilities. Trauma-informed practices include educating all stakeholders engaged with children and families, systematically screening children entering care, and dedicating resources to the provision of trauma-specific interventions. Trauma-specific interventions go beyond treating the symptoms of trauma, such as mental health disorders, and focus on the interplay between trauma and its consequences. This approach includes providing children with a sense of control and hope, and requires the involvement of all stakeholders working with the child, including caseworkers, lawyers, judges, providers, birth parents, and caregivers (foster parents and kinship caregivers). Such trauma-informed practices present an excellent opportunity for improving child welfare outcomes. This brief will highlight the effects of trauma on child wellbeing and provide practice recommendations and examples of specific initiatives to guide transformation of the system.
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Keywords
child abuse, polyvictimization, multi-victimization, treatment
Citation
Klain, E. J., & White, A. R. (2013). Implementing Trauma-Informed Practices in Child Welfare. American Bar Association, Center on Children and the Law