Related Experiment Video

Updated: May 1, 2026

Use of a Psychophysiological Script-driven Imagery Experiment to Study Trauma-related Dissociation in Borderline Personality Disorder
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Complex trauma

Matthew Kliethermes1, Megan Schacht1, Kate Drewry1

  • 1Children's Advocacy Services of Greater St Louis, Department of Psychology, University of Missouri-St Louis, Weinman Building, 1 University Boulevard, St Louis, MO 63121, USA.

Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Clinics of North America
|March 25, 2014
PubMed

Insights

Complex trauma involves chronic, interpersonal events within caregiving relationships, impacting children and adolescents. This review covers its prevalence, causes, symptoms, and treatment strategies.

Area of Science:

  • Child and Adolescent Psychology
  • Trauma Studies
  • Developmental Psychology

Background:

  • Complex trauma arises from chronic, interpersonal traumatic experiences, often within caregiving relationships.
  • It is associated with a distinct pattern of psychological and behavioral symptoms in affected individuals.
  • Understanding complex trauma is crucial for addressing developmental and mental health challenges in youth.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To explore the prevalence and phenomenology of complex trauma in children and adolescents.
  • To identify the causes and contributing factors of complex trauma.
  • To outline assessment, diagnostic, and intervention strategies for complex trauma.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review synthesizing existing research on complex trauma.
  • Exploration of etiological factors and symptom presentation.
  • Analysis of family and system-related issues impacting treatment.

Main Results:

  • Complex trauma is characterized by chronic interpersonal adversity and associated symptom patterns.
  • Prevalence, causes, and developmental impact vary across affected youth.
  • Effective interventions require addressing individual, family, and systemic factors.

Conclusions:

  • Complex trauma significantly impacts child and adolescent development and mental health.
  • Comprehensive assessment and tailored interventions are essential for recovery.
  • Addressing family dynamics and system support is critical for successful outcomes.

Keywords:
Childhood victimizationChildren and adolescentsComplex traumaInterpersonal trauma

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