Homelessness Trauma

Homelessness has many negative effects on children. As a result, children experience emotional, social, developmental and behavioral issues(EOCCPT). The trauma these children experience leads to stress, which affects brain development in individuals. This can cause sleeplessness, as well as, irritability in the children. Furthermore, many homeless children experience both internal and external behaviors such as depression, anxiety, aggression, and delinquent behaviors(EOCCPT). In addition, the social skills with this population of kids are lacking. As a consequence, many of the children do not know how to properly interact with others. It is not a secret that homelessness in America is a growing problem. Each year the number of families displaced

For instance, the children move a lot, therefore, causing separation from friends and extended family members. The constant changing of schools is another element which impacts the children's behavior. With homelessness comes a form of instability, which increases the risk of developing behavioral issues in children. In addition, trauma such as neglect and abuse are common in the life of homeless kids(EOCCPT). Eventually, the effect of the trauma can cause behaviors.

WHAT IS NOT KNOWN ABOUT WHAT CAUSES THE

It can be even more challenging to find appropriate, yet, effective interventions to aid the children. Adlerian Play Therapy is both. The Adlerian Theory believes in the creativeness and uniqueness of each individual(APT). This intervention is done in four sections. The first stage requires the child to work with the counselor to build a safe and trusting relationship. Second, the lifestyle of the child is investigated by the counselor. This is done through exploring their goals. The third stage makes use of interventions such as puppets, role play or storytelling. In this way, the counselor can help the child obtain an understanding of patterns of behavior, thought, and feelings(APT). In the final stage of the intervention, children get to practice the new behaviors, thoughts, and feelings they gave learned. Child-centered Play therapy, better known as CCPT, is another intervention that is effective(MARO). It provides children a safe environment in which children may play with selected items, thus,communicate their feelings, thoughts, and behaviors through