Trauma-informed care in early intervention: Providers' barriers, boundaries, and needs

Area of Science:

• Child Development
• Psychology
• Social Work

Background:

• Trauma is prevalent in young children, particularly those receiving early intervention (EI) services.
• Existing research indicates EI providers lack preparedness to address trauma in children and families.
• Understanding the specific needs and barriers for trauma-informed care (TIC) in EI is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore barriers and needs for implementing trauma-informed care (TIC) within early intervention (EI) services.
• To understand the perspectives of EI providers regarding trauma support for families.
• To identify systemic and individual factors influencing TIC in EI.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative interviews were conducted with 14 EI providers in a single US state.
• Social ecological theory was used to organize findings across different system levels.
• Thematic analysis was employed to identify key barriers and needs.

Main Results:

• Macrosystemic issues include an unequipped system and lack of role clarity for EI providers.
• Exosystemic findings highlight the need for specific training for EI providers in TIC.
• Mesosystemic and microsystemic themes revealed challenges in gatekeeping, family-provider dynamics, and provider well-being.

Conclusions:

• A top-down, systemic approach is necessary for effective TIC implementation in EI.
• Clarifying the roles of different EI disciplines is essential for integrating TIC.
• Addressing provider training, well-being, and systemic support is critical for serving trauma-impacted children and families.