Toward an integrative developmental science perspective on the effects of trauma experienced by refugees of war

• In Event: 3-045 - The International Consortium of Developmental Science Societies: contributions on trauma, refugee youth, and climate change.

Integrative Statement

Developmental science theory and empirical research on the status of refugees requires an updated definition of trauma as a multi-systemic and multilevel phenomenon. It is often assumed that trauma is the inevitable response to exposure to violence and displacement. Events may be traumatic but whether such events always or even generally cause damage or developmental delays remains a compelling question for developmental science. The goal of the present paper is to synthesize what we know about refugee camp displacement and the effects of trauma in individuals across the entire life span/life course. We present a theoretical framework based on developmental science approaches including: ecological and sociohistorical models, the life course perspective, stress process models and cultural considerations to discuss critical concepts useful for understanding risk of negative outcomes from trauma-exposure. Combining elements from each theoretical perspective, we discuss critical concepts important for understanding risk of negative outcomes from trauma-exposure from pregnancy/birth through old age. We apply our theoretical model to stimulate thinking about expected and disrupted human development in refugee camp displacement situations across the lifespan/life course. Life stage and chronological age are used as sensitizing categories as we are mindful that social roles may be more meaningful than age in some cultural contexts. Drawing on recent and classic literature, we examine developmental responses to traumatic events, as they do and do not interrupt typical developmental trajectories. In so doing, biological, social, and emotional characteristics of individuals and groups living in contexts defined by war and displacement are discussed. We also consider the socio-emotional context that might further place individuals at increased risk for adverse outcomes or, in contrast, support resilience. Development in a refugee camp includes factors that cut across time, place, individuals, and political realities. By taking a developmental science approach to the understanding of complex trauma, we seek to advance a framework that notes harm experienced at different ages may result in different outcomes. The focus on multi-systemic and multilevel processes across the entire life span/life course gives importance to linkages between individuals and contexts. In so doing, we aim to broaden understanding for future trauma research and intervention work.

Author

• Kristine Ajrouch, Eastern Michigan University
  Presenting Author