A Trauma-Informed Approach to Childhood Maltreatment

Presenting case studies from across the lifespan, this book provides a comprehensive analysis of the causes and complications of complex trauma, as well as a framework for trauma-informed care. Complex trauma significantly impacts upon survivors’ sense of identity, emotional self-regulation and relationships.

The author presents four new theoretical underpinnings to address CPTSD’s disturbances in a child and non-offending parents' identity, self-regulation, self-compassion, and posttraumatic cognitions. Case studies and trauma survivor testimonies are introduced at the beginning of each chapter and interwoven throughout the theory and research. The chapter narratives support the reader with decision points and reflections to embed learning by practically linking theories, concepts, and practices to real-world examples to embody learning outcomes. Collectively the chapters build a relational model of trauma-informed care grounded in interdisciplinary collaboration across education, psychology, law, policy, medicine, and trauma-informed ethics.

A much-needed contribution to the knowledge and treatment of complex PTSD, this is an essential resource for professionals and educators working in childhood trauma and mental health.