publications > focal point > summer 2007

Focal Point

Winter 2007 Issue: "Traumatic Stress/Child Welfare"

The complete issue or single articles from this issue are available for downloading in PDF format. To view PDF files you must have Adobe Acrobat Reader installed, available as a free download from Adobe.

Focal Point: Research, Policy, and Practice in Children's Mental Health: Traumatic Stress/Child Welfare. 21(1) Winter 2007 (ENTIRE ISSUE).
Walker, J. S., Weaver, A., Gowen, L. K., & Aue, N.

This Focal Point issue focuses on child traumatic stress, particularly as experienced by children involved in the child welfare system. The causes and effects of traumatic stress are discussed, as are evidence-based treatments, and prevention strategies. Download PDF

Traumatic Stress and the Child Welfare System.
Walker, J. S., & Weaver, A.

This article defines child traumatic stress, describes some events that can cause traumatic stress, and summarizes the effects it has on children, youth, and society. Download PDF

Complex Trauma in Children and Adolescents.
Cook, A., et al.

This article provides a core background for understanding the psychological and physiological effects of multiple traumatic stress experiences on the developing brain. Steps for assessment and treatment are also discussed. Download PDF

A Real Mother's Embrace: Reflections on Abuse and Recovery.
Weaver, A.

The guest editor of this issue of Focal Point gives a poignant first-person account of his childhood abuse and subsequent recovery. A strong theme of Aaron's story is the enduring support and love offered by his foster family. Download PDF

Evidence-Based Treatment for Children in Child Welfare.
Stambaugh, L., Burns, B. J., Landsverk, J., & Rolls-Reutz, J.

This article reviews several treatment programs for children in the child welfare system who \have experienced traumatic stress. The article focuses on treatments for which there is the best evidence of effectiveness. Download PDF

Early Intervention as Prevention: Addressing Trauma in Young Children.
Groves, B.

This article focuses on the need for early intervention to address child traumatic stress in young children. The article also describes the characteristics of effective intervention. Download PDF

Adapting Evidence-Based Treatments for Use with American Indian and Native Alaskan Children and Youth.
Bigfoot, D. S., & Braden, J.

This article describes the adaptation of several evidence-based treatments (EBTs) for child traumatic stress for use in Native American communities. The EBTs that are discussed attend to the broad cultural, historical, and intergenerational traumas that are part of the life experience of many Native American youth. Download PDF

Creating a Trauma-Informed Child Welfare System.
Igelman, R., Conradi, L., & Ryan, B.

One role of the child welfare system is to remove children from abusive or neglectful home environments. Ironically, sometimes the system itself can be a source of trauma. This article provides steps for reducing trauma within the child welfare system. Download PDF

Child Trauma: The Role of Public Policy.
Gerrity, E.

This article discusses the impact that federal, state, and local government policies have in promoting increased understanding of and effective response to child traumatic stress. Analysis of current policy issues and areas for improvement is included. Download PDF

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2008 Research and Training Center on Family Support and Children’s Mental Health, Portland State University, Portland, Oregon.

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