THE EFFECT OF COMPLEX TRAUMA ON CHILDREN IN THE CHILD WELFARE SYSTEM: EXPLORING THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN COMPLEX TRAUMA, PLACEMENT, AND BEHAVIOR USING SECONDARY DATA ANALYSIS

Abstract

This study used secondary data analysis to both identify and evaluate children with complex trauma who have interacted with the child protective services system. The study addressed a current gap in the literature by conducting secondary data analysis with this specific population. By using the NSCAW I dataset, two groups of children, one defined as complextrauma likely and the other as not likely as complex trauma, were established. There was a significant difference between the average CBCL scores of externalizing behavior between the two groups. Additionally, for the complex trauma-likely specific population, disruptions in foster care placement had a statistically significant effect on externalizing behavior. Finally, a better understanding of the interaction of the variables of complex trauma, number of placements, and behavior was explored by using linear regression analysis.