Addressing Birth Parent Trauma: Pathway to Reunification

Thompson, Elizabeth A.

doi:10.1007/978-3-319-64602-2_11

Cited by 7 publications

(3 citation statements)

References 27 publications

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“…Some of these factors can be structural (e.g., lack of employment, housing difficulties) so that the parent is faced by significant external pressures that subsume their resources to such an extent that it results in neglect or abuse of the child. In addition, many parents experience emotional, mental, and physical health vulnerabilities, including substance misuse, as a result of chronic exposure to trauma in intimate relationships and severely disrupted attachment relationships in infancy (Thompson, 2018). This compounds the effects of structural disadvantage.…”

Section: Trauma In Child Protectionmentioning

confidence: 99%

“…We also recognise the significant association between out-of-home care in parents and the likelihood that their own children will either be notified or enter care (Wall-Wieler et al, 2018). Thompson (2018), referring to trauma experienced in infancy, childhood, and adulthood identifies that unresolved traumatic stress in a parent is a powerful contributor, not only to parenting difficulties, but also with regard to poor engagement with statutory agencies. She argues that unless the traumatic stress resulting from chronic and early interpersonal traumatisation, and the associated difficulties with forming trusting and open intimate relationships, is resolved, efforts at reunification will be compromised.…”

Section: Trauma In Child Protectionmentioning

confidence: 99%

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Using the Adult Exploration of Attachment Interview (AEAI) to Break the Cycle of Intergenerational Trauma: Illustrations from a Family Reunification Program

Amos

Todd²,

Gibson³

et al. 2022

ANZ J of Family Therapy

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Family reunification is an area of high policy importance for child protection systems. The safe return of children from out‐of‐home care to their biological parents or relatives and long‐term family preservation can potentially mitigate the subsequent detrimental effects of separating children from their families. In this paper we describe one type of family for whom reunification was considered; namely, families who have been affected by intergenerational trauma. To assist families affected by intergenerational trauma and abuse requires an understanding of the mechanisms and processes that maintain intergenerational trauma and how these might inform therapeutic approaches for working with children and their families. This paper utilises case studies to illustrate the use of the Adult Exploration of Attachment Interview (AEAI) as part of a broader therapeutic reunification program in an Australian state. The AEAI focuses on supporting parents to become aware of the impact of previous experiences in their childhood; the mitigation of feelings of shame, self‐blame, and inadequacy by helping the parent confront the negative experiences of the past. The aim is to assist the parent to recognise the significance of the past, to consolidate their strengths, and to develop more nurturing relationships with their children. Case illustrations demonstrate that this therapy was a component in addressing the causes of behaviour and psychological distress that had been barriers to reunification from care in two families. This was achieved through a process of reflection and self‐awareness, rather than one focused on guilt or shame, with the therapist there to help verbalise and articulate what otherwise might have been hidden or implicit processes. In both cases, this awareness was used to help reframe the parent–child relationship and led to observable behavioural changes in parenting practices.

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Section: Trauma In Child Protectionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Section: Trauma In Child Protectionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Using the Adult Exploration of Attachment Interview (AEAI) to Break the Cycle of Intergenerational Trauma: Illustrations from a Family Reunification Program

Amos

Todd²,

Gibson³

et al. 2022

ANZ J of Family Therapy

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“…Finally, assessing child exposure to DV and its consequences is complex, and it may seem easier to focus on physical risk and safety than on children's overall exposure (LaLiberte et al, 2010). Professionals who are insensitive can retraumatize victims (Thompson, 2017). Therefore, social workers must handle meetings with children exposed to DV with caution and sensitivity.…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

What children exposed to domestic violence value when meeting social workers: A practice‐oriented systematic research review

Vikander

Cater

2023

Child & Family Social Work

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Children exposed to domestic violence (DV) face a heightened risk of many types of short‐ and long‐term problems. Social workers can limit these risks if the support and help they offer is perceived as valuable by the child. The aims of this review were to identify what children exposed to DV value when meeting social workers, to suggest how this knowledge can be used in practice by professionals dedicated to working with these children and to identify and suggest key areas of focus for future research. A synthesis of 18 studies reveals that, in meetings with social workers, children exposed to DV value (1) basic requirements, (2) inclusion, (3) acknowledgement and (4) enjoyment. This review offers a smorgasbord of opportunities for practitioners to meet the wishes and needs of these children. However, comparative research is needed to facilitate adaptation and to distinguish between elements valued by children that are core prerequisites for helping them disclose their experiences and/or aiding their recovery and elements that are less crucial but still valued.

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