| Abstract [eng] |
The prevalence of traumatic experiences in early childhood and its impact on children's psychosocial functioning is a serious mental health problem (Harris, Putnam & Fairbank, 2006). However, much of the information on traumatic experiences in childhood comes from retrospective studies conducted with adults. This paper aims to explore the associations between traumatic experiences, indicators of traumatisation and psychosocial functioning in young children. The study uses the Odense Child Trauma Screening (OCTS), which enables children to be informants of their own psychological well-being. The sample consisted of 50 children aged 3-8 years (54.0% girls and 46.0% boys). The participants were divided into two groups: a general population group (n = 29), which was recruited from different educational institutions, and an at-risk group (n = 21), which was recruited from institutions providing psychological support to children. Parents/guardians completed a socio-demographic questionnaire, the Child and Adolescent Trauma Questionnaire’s (CATS) list of potentially traumatic events and the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ). The OCTS was administered to the children. The results show that 65.2% of the children experienced at least one potentially traumatic event. Differences in traumatic experiences, psychosocial functioning, OCTS stories and play narratives were found between the at-risk and general population groups. Significant associations were found between children's traumatic experiences, indicators of traumatisation and psychosocial functioning. The limitations of the study and guidelines for further research are discussed. |
