Trauma is not the only reason a student may have these problems, however, it can be helpful to explore whether trauma has played a part in shaping some of these behaviors. 

Here's a partial list of behavior problems that are possibly related to trauma:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Low frustration tolerance, short fuse/temper, or may cry easily
• Loss of interest in goals, “don’t care”
• Hard time focusing or concentrating
• Relationship issues
• Frequent Fights/aggression
• Missing/skipping school or work
• Substance use/abuse
• Criminal behaviors

To be clear, not every problem behavior is a sign of pasttrauma. However, it is possible these behaviors might represent ineffective coping strategies a student has learned in order to deal with earlier trauma.

Also, notice that many of these behaviors are often attributed to “poor parenting.” While that may be true in some instances, often these problems persist despite “good enough” parenting. When that’s the case, it can be helpful to explore trauma as a possible source.

When a child, teen, or young adult in your care displays problem behaviors, it’s helpful to explore where it comes from. As a parent, youth worker, teacher, or coach, get into the habit of asking yourself: 

“What happened in this student’s childhood that opened the door for this behavior?”

If you suspect that your child or teen’s behaviors could be related to previous trauma, give me a call, and let’s see if counseling might be a good fit.