Balancing the Needs of the School Community: Implementing Trauma-Informed Behaviour Supports in an Australian Regional Primary School
Year: 2022
Type: article
Abstract: Exposure to adverse and traumatic events in childhood has been found to lead to poorer academic and social-emotional outcomes in school settings. The psychological impact of exposure to such events, referred to as childhood trauma, has been identified as a key driver of these educational difficulties. First Nations students have been found to experience higher rates of childhood trauma compared to non-First Nations students, with historical and intergenerational adversity contributing to such difficulties. There are national guidelines in Australia for the use of trauma-informed care practices in schools to reduce the impact of childhood trauma on educational engagement. This pilot case study examines teachers' experiences in a regional school implementing trauma-informed practices with First Nations students. Findings highlight the complexities of balancing students' safety and belonging with teachers' professional and personal needs in sustaining trauma-informed practice. Implications for implementing trauma-informed education with First Nations communities are discussed.
Authors: Kay Ayre, Govind Krishnamoorthy, Bronwyn Rees, Young Minds Psychology, Ipswich, QLD, Australia, Emily Berger
Language: English
Subfield: Health
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4353003383