Trauma, Development, and Spirituality 1
Trauma, Development and Spirituality
Mikasha C. Wade
Liberty University CEFS-502
Author Note
Trauma, Development, and Spirituality 2
Trauma
Trauma is detrimental, impactful and can have a negative influence in the development of
children. The American Psychological Association (n.d.) describes trauma as, “an expressive
response to a dreadful event such as, an accident, rape or natural disaster” (trauma section,
para. 1). Trauma happens when you are involved or exposed to situations that are distressing or
detrimental emotionally and may or may not be life threatening. These exposures can cause
lasting adverse effects on individuals and possibly impact mental, physical, social, emotional,
and/or spiritual well-being. This essay will focus on trauma and how it affects development and
what might be the determining factors that lead to developmental delays when a child is exposed
to trauma.
According to the Brewer and Koen (2014), trauma is a precursor to many mental health
conditions that greatly impact victims, their loved ones and society (pg 251). This is more
concerning with childhood trauma which can impact neurodevelopmental and psychosocial
developmental processes. This often occurs when the trauma introduces psychological stress and
other unpleasant reactions. There are several different types of childhood trauma that will lead to
developmental delays, such as child abuse and neglect. Studies have shown this type of trauma
has been associated with an increased risk for depressive disorder in young children to young
adulthood. Additionally, emotionally abused adolescence commonly developed an eating
disorder. Physically abused children were found to have aggressive behavioral problems and
often externalized problem behaviors well into adulthood. No matter the form of trauma (may it
be natural, or human created), the consequences can turn into disorders of mental or behavior
ailments that can eventually impact serious mental or emotional stressors. These stressors could
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result in personal injury. Just as the method of delivery or source of trauma varies, so can the
impacts.
Trauma and resilience
The American Psychological Association (2019) noted, “resilience is the process of
adapting well when confronted by adversity, tragedy, significant stressors, and trauma” (as cited
in Wong & Hernandez, 2020, p. 132.). Therefore, it is possible for children to overcome the
challenges of trauma and rebound from trauma with resilience. Self-belief, increased self-esteem
and empowering initiatives, that points towards proactive self-awareness and reliance, are critical
components of resilience and overcoming trauma. Children Resilience is the ability of a child to
improve and show early physical/emotional signs of recovery after trauma. However, adult
influence, interaction and support is necessary for child resilience to be successful. According to
research having a strong powerful adult relationship is a key ingredient in resilience. Shonkoff
(n.d.) echoed this and stated, “Resilience depends on supportive, responsive relationships and
mastering a set of capabilities that can help us respond and adapt to adversity in healthy ways,”
(Walsh, 2015, par 3). Although adult guidance and support is necessary, spiritual guidance is a
welcome component to the healing process.
Spiritual Development
Scripture understands humanities limitations and ability to process pain and grief.
Therefore, Matthew 11:28-30 is a welcomed word to anyone who may be feeling overburdened
by trauma. The Scripture states, “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give
you rest. “…..for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my
yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” (ESV). The hope within these worlds provides the ability
of anyone who is traumatized to lay issues/hurt/grief on Christ. This is in line with some
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practitioner’s belief of integrating faith to aid in recovery. Brewer and Koenig (2014) stated,
“Findings suggest that spiritual or religious individuals may experience a protective effect
against the neuroendocrine consequences of stress” (pg. 253). Spirituality can promote social
assistance and has been found to help individuals with suicidal ideations and previous sexual
trauma. Spirituality has been defined differently and practiced broadly.
The concept of religious coping involves different approaches; this could be seeking
spiritual support, God’s love, or surrendering all to God. With various research and approaches
there is also a downside to religious/spiritual help with trauma if wrath or sin is emphasized. This
could prevent someone from forgiving themselves and increase blaming themselves for past
traumatic situations. Despite “spirituality & trauma” needing more research and study in the
area, people often find inner peace and a purposeful successful life with it. Having a spiritual
belief system can help to bring peace, harmony and meaning to process and overcome traumatic
experience. The challenge would be translating this is a way that children can understand and
accept.
Conclusion
Southwick (2011) believed, “Individual outcomes after traumatic events depend on
genetics, development, cognitive, psychological, and neurobiological risk and protective factors,
religion and spirituality are important considerations when studying resilience (as cited in
Brewer & Koenig, 2014, pg 254). A person’s response to trauma is different from the next,
trauma may have a different impact on different developmental process may it be physiological
and/or psychological. The idea behind resiliency is grasping the issues as soon as possible to
limit the damage and reduce the impact of the trauma. The overall goal is to permit healing and
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allow recovery. Additional work needs to be done to find a comprehensive solution that allows
children to blend all methods to achieve successful results prior to entering adulthood.
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References
American Psychological Association. (n.d.). Trauma and shock. American Psychological
Association. Retrieved April 1, 2022, from https://www.apa.org/topics/trauma
Kathleen Brewer-Smyth & Harold G. Koenig (2014) Could Spirituality and Religion Promote
Stress Resilience in Survivors of Childhood Trauma?, Issues in Mental Health Nursing,
35:4, 251-256, DOI: 10.3109/01612840.2013.873101 Song, J., Min, J., Huh, H., & Chae,
J. (2016). Types of childhood trauma and spirituality in adult patients with depressive
disorders. Comprehensive Psychiatry, 69, 11-19.
http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.comppsych.2016.04.003
Walsh, B. (2015, March 23). . Harvard Graduate School of Education. The Science of Resilience
Retrieved April 1, 2022, from https://www.gse.harvard.edu/news/uk/15/03/science-
resilience
Wong, D. W., Hall, K. R., & Hernandez, L. W. (2020). Counseling Individuals Through the
Lifespan (2nd Edition). SAGE Publications, Inc. (US).
https://mbsdirect.vitalsource.com/books/9781544343235
