Real-world current events demonstrate the importance of attachment for child development, as well as the impact that disrupted attachments can cause. Separation does not only impact an individual; it can have far-reaching consequences, changing how children learn to view the world and develop, interact with their communities, and react to stressful situations. They are at a higher risk for psychological disorders and physical health problems, and they are at a greater risk for substance abuse as adults.

There are known strategies for supporting children who are experiencing trauma, such as the ones included in a resource from The National Child Traumatic Stress Network. This document groups children into three age groups: preschool or younger, school-aged, and adolescents, and it provides a general overview of how trauma might present within those three age groups, as well as suggestions for how support systems can best assist in helping children cope with trauma (NCTSNadmin, 2018). These strategies will be useful as the world works to support the isolation and trauma that is evident both for intact families experiencing the pandemic and for families that have endured separation during this time.

Licenses and Attributions for Looking Ahead: The Child Traumatic Stress Network

Open Content, Original

“Looking Ahead” by Elizabeth B. Pearce. License: CC BY 4.0.