What is Trauma?
The American Psychological Association (n.d.) defines trauma as an "emotional response to a terrible event like an accident, rape or natural disaster" (para. 1). The effects of trauma not only affect the person who is experiencing the trauma, but also those around them. Trauma leaves multiple side effects that a person can carry with them throughout their entire life.
Three Types of Trauma
Acute Trauma
A single event that causes trauma.
rape
natural disaster
accident
assault
moving
poor work evaluations
student violence
code red (lockdown)
Chronic Trauma
A long term exposure to trauma or exposure to multiple traumatic events
domestic violence
bullying
war
long term illness
divorce
toxic work culture
Complex Trauma
Exposure to multiple events or experiences that are traumatic. This occurs with relationships between people.
childhood abuse or neglect
family disputes
domestic abuse
Effects of Trauma
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