What is a common psychological response in children following a traumatic event?

Withdrawal and regression are common psychological responses in children following a traumatic event. When faced with trauma, children may experience a sense of overwhelming fear or loss of control, leading them to withdraw from social interactions and exhibit behaviors that resemble earlier developmental stages. This regression can manifest as thumb-sucking, bedwetting, or a renewed dependence on caregivers, as the child seeks comfort during a time of distress.

Childhood is a period where emotional and psychological resilience is still developing, and traumatic experiences can disrupt this development. The withdrawal response serves as a protective mechanism, allowing the child to cope with the emotions and confusion following the trauma. Regression might also reflect the child's attempt to make sense of their altered world by reverting to familiar actions that provide a sense of safety and security.

In contrast, responses like elation and joy are not typical, as trauma generally disrupts a child's ability to feel safe and happy. Increased energy and activity would not align with the tendency to withdraw; instead, it might indicate hyperactivity or difficulty in bearing the emotional burden of trauma. Lastly, antisocial behaviors often carry negative consequences and do not typically occur in the absence of understanding, as trauma may lead children to feel more isolated and distressed, rather than unaffected.