From Their Voices: Understanding Elementary Student-Perceived Impact of Complex Trauma on Learning

• In Event: Psychological and Physical Safety at School: Examining a Social Determinant

Abstract

Current trends in education recognize the detrimental impacts of trauma experienced by children. Such prevalence requires that educators implement trauma-informed practices to ameliorate its negative effects. This pilot study situated within a phenomenographic methodology examines the perceptions of eight students from an inner-city urban 4th grade classroom. Their powerful voices provide insight into how students navigate the learning environment and relate to teachers while living in the shadows of complex trauma. Observations, interviews, field notes, and cognitive load measures supplement results of two formal instruments to assess trauma and suggest relationships between resiliency, engagement, and trauma. These shared stories emphasize the need for further exploration.

Authors

• Joanne C Fish, Fontbonne University

• Paula Gross, Fontbonne University