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Spirituality of the Traumatized Child: A Call for Increased Faith Community Participation in the Trauma-Healing

Caitlin M Westerfield1, Benjamin R Doolittle2

  • 1Department of Religious Studies, Department of Computer Science, Yale University, 451 College Street, New Haven, CT, 06511, USA. Caitlin.westerfield@aya.yale.edu.

Journal of Religion and Health
|September 13, 2021
PubMed

Insights

Childhood trauma affects one-third of global youth, increasing mental health risks. Integrating spiritual care and community support can aid healing alongside traditional therapies.

Area of Science:

  • Child Psychology
  • Trauma Studies
  • Sociology of Religion

Background:

  • One-third of children globally experience traumatic events.
  • Trauma in childhood is linked to increased mental health disorders.
  • Traumatized children may disengage from religious and spiritual practices.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To explore the role of spirituality in healing childhood trauma.
  • To examine the potential of religious communities in supporting traumatized children.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review on trauma, mental health, and spirituality.
  • Analysis of the impact of community support on child well-being.

Main Results:

  • Spirituality can serve as a valuable adjunct to traditional psychological therapies for children.
  • Religious communities offer opportunities for healthy relationship building and coping.

Conclusions:

  • Integrating spiritual and community-based approaches can enhance healing for children affected by trauma.
  • Religious institutions can provide safe environments and foster resilience.

Keywords:
Childhood traumaHealingReligionSpirituality

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