Incorporating Trauma‐Informed Care Into School‐Based Programs1. (2nd November 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Martin, Sandra L.; Ashley, Olivia Silber; White, LeBretia; Axelson, Sarah; Clark, Marc; Burrus, Barri
• Is Part Of: Journal of school health. Volume 87:Number 12(2017:Dec.)
• Page Start: 958
• Page End: 967
• Publication Date: 2017-11-02
• Subjects: violence -- stress -- school‐based clinics -- risk behaviors -- reproductive health -- professional preparation of school health professionals; School health services -- Periodicals; School children -- Health and hygiene -- Periodicals; Health education -- Periodicals; School Health Services -- Periodicals; Health Education -- Periodicals; 371.71
• DOI: 10.1111/josh.12568
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0022-4391

Abstract

ABSTRACT: BACKGROUND: This article provides an overview of the rationale and process for incorporating trauma‐informed approaches into US school‐based programs, using school‐based adolescent pregnancy prevention programs as an example. METHODS: Research literature is reviewed on the prevalence and outcomes of childhood trauma, including the links between trauma and pregnancy. Information is then presented concerning the implementation of trauma‐informed approaches in school settings, describing activities undertaken, barriers encountered, and outcomes achieved. Next, we describe the implications of this literature for school‐based adolescent pregnancy prevention programs, outlining the reasons for including trauma‐informed approaches in these programs, the prerequisites for doing so, and some examples of successful implementation. RESULTS: Many children in our country experience trauma, placing them at increased risk of multiple health concerns including adolescent pregnancy. In response to this situation, some schools have successfully incorporated trauma‐informed approaches into adolescent pregnancy prevention programs, as well as other programming. CONCLUSIONS: Incorporating trauma‐informed approaches into school settings, including school‐based adolescent pregnancy prevention programs, is a viable and important way to address the multiple needs of traumatized children.