Affiliation:
1. Department of Psychology, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
2. Faculty of Social Studies, Family Therapy and Systemic Practice, VID Specialized University, Oslo, Norway
Abstract
Exposure to adverse childhood experiences is a risk factor for the development of serious psychiatric and somatic illness. Although trauma-focused therapy is effective in reducing symptoms, not all children benefit from it. To improve treatment efficacy, the children’s perspective on what they perceive as helpful versus hindering is necessary. This study aimed, retrospectively, to explore how children exposed to family violence experienced treatment at the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service. Seventeen children and youths were interviewed 4–5 years after treatment. The thematic analysis resulted in five themes: confusion, the need to feel heard, fear of consequences, feelings of pain, and identifying oneself as an agent. The results emphasize the importance of the therapeutic relationship, and that trust, genuine interest, and reciprocity are necessary for the child to engage in treatment. However, neither the child’s own agency nor external obstacles such as continuous exposure to abuse should be underestimated in terms of the child’s engagement.
Funder
Wilhelm och Martina Lundgrens Vetenskapsfond
the Queen Silvia’s children’s hospital research foundation
the Adlerbertska foundation
the Petter Silfverskiold Foundation
the Sven Jerring foundation
Subject
Psychiatry and Mental health,Clinical Psychology,General Medicine,Pediatrics, Perinatology and Child Health
Cited by
1 articles.
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