Trauma Disrupts Behavioral Functions

By Lynn L. West, PhDc, BCETS, LCPC

Lynn L. West & Associates, LLC

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Trauma Disrupts Behavioral Functions

Understanding the role of biochemistry in human behavior is critical in treating individuals affected by trauma response. Studies of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in children have shown that developmental trauma can effect behavioral functioning often seen lasting into adult hood. Effects can include disorganized cognitive operations, memory and retrieval disturbances, difficulties with focus and concentration, time/space/location problems, pressured speech or hypomanic behavior, behavioral regression to an earlier age of development, or traumatic dissociation.

In the 5th Edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, published in 2013, PTSD is classified as a trauma- and stress-related disorder.

It is now recognized that experiences that are significantly terrorizing and psychologically and emotionally overwhelming can cause behavioral trauma-related symptoms. These experiences can include acts of bullying, mobbing, loud screaming or harsh verbal over-aggression (up in your face yelling) directed at or observed by a child or adult. It can also include experiences of physical or verbal violent threatening behavior towards self or loved ones, as well as sexual and/or physical trauma, natural disasters, victims of violence or oppressive coercion, and other similar circumstances.

Trauma response symptoms are specific and define the diagnosis. Other diagnosis can co-occur. Triggers are internal or external sensory experiences that are perceived by the individual as life threatening. The trauma response system pathologically activates the homeostasis/fight or flight stress response system as well as a cascade of psychoneuroimmune and neuroendocrine and gastric systems responses. Treatment includes pharmacological interventions, cognitive therapy, family relationship work, and environmental situational changes where appropriate.

Trauma response symptoms are significant and require specialized treatment.