Trauma-Informed Practices: The Impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences in Elementary-Aged Children

Abstract

Trauma-informed practices have become a buzzword within the field of education. This extended literature review and doctoral work project aim to bridge the gap between general knowledge of trauma-informed practices and an in-depth understanding of the impact of adverse childhood experiences on elementary-aged children through the lens of educational psychology. Additionally, the purpose of this project is to provide a concise resource of research-based practices that school psychologists can incorporate into their psychoeducational role within the educational field. The research for this project was collected through an extended review of literature on adverse childhood experiences, trauma, psychological disorders, neurological functioning, and school psychology competencies, and educational practices. If left unaddressed, children who have experienced a significant amount of adverse childhood experiences have immediate dysfunction in the home and school settings and go on to have lifelong health impacts, including a shorter life span. School psychologists have been identified as highly capable individuals to help lead the way in trauma-informed practices within the educational field. Research supports the use of a multi-tiered system of support to mediate trauma exposure in children. Research-based interventions identified in this project include universal screeners, social-emotional curriculum, programs based on cognitive behavioral therapy, and the Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics. The findings indicated the need for educational psychology specific resources on the impact of adverse childhood experiences on elementary-aged children and research-based practices that can be immediately incorporated into the scope of educational psychology. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]