The Science of Childhood Trauma (VIDEO)

Recent childhood trauma studies demonstrate how observing violence has a lasting negative impact on a child’s brain development. Each year, nearly 60% of youth are exposed to violence in their homes, schools, and communities. Over time, exposure to violence during childhood is significantly correlated with negative outcomes; childhood trauma symptoms in adults can appear as psychological issues, adverse behavior, and serious illnesses.

The U.S. Department of Justice, Futures Without Violence, and the Ad Council have developed the Changing Minds campaign, as part of the Defending Childhood Initiative.

One of the biggest predictors of a child’s ability to be resilient in the face of traumatic stress is interacting with a caring adult. Learn how your everyday gestures can help a child in your life at ChangingMindsNOW.org.