How Trauma Effects the Brain

Trauma impacts relationships, learning, and brain structure according to research. But, the brain is neuroplastic- it has the ability to change and adapt as a result of experiences. Negative experiences affect neurotypical brain development and often results in developmental trauma. Children with trauma histories develop maladaptive behaviors like stealing, lying, control, manipulation, triangulation, violence, and aggression as survival skills, which makes their behavior hard to manage. But, the brain can heal through positive experiences and secure attachments with safe, loving, nurturing caregivers who can distinguish the difference between willful disobedience and maladaptive survival skills resulting from trauma.