Complex Developmental Trauma: What It Is & How It Develops

Trauma isn’t a one-size-fits-all experience. There are different levels of trauma that people can go through. The type of trauma and the period of life in which it occurs can make a big difference in symptoms and treatment solutions.

Complex developmental trauma, for instance, occurs as the result of consistent negative experiences throughout childhood. This might include repeated incidences of abuse, neglect, or even a child witnessing domestic violence in the home.

While complex developmental trauma (CDT) develops during childhood, it can leave a lasting impact on an individual’s well-being, creating issues well into adulthood.

Let’s take a closer look at what complex developmental trauma really is, how it develops, and what you can do to move forward if you’re dealing with the repercussions.

How Does CDT Develop?

Children develop attachments at a very early age. Ideally, every child would be able to form a secure attachment with their parents or caregivers. However, when there is consistent trauma occurring in the household, that’s unlikely to happen.

Things like abuse, neglect, violence, or witnessing repeated trauma can cause a child to form an insecure attachment with caregivers.

Insecure attachments can negatively impact a child’s developmental health, including brain development and emotional regulation.

What Are the Signs of CDT?

If a child has experienced complex developmental trauma, they might display a variety of different signs and symptoms. They might have trouble understanding or expressing their emotions in healthy ways. They are likely to experience challenges with memory and problem-solving. It’s also not uncommon for children who have experienced CBT to have behavioral issues. They might “act out” or struggle with social interactions.

The Effects of Complex Developmental Trauma as an Adult

Unfortunately, if a child is experiencing CDT, parents or caregivers might not notice the signs, especially if the cause is abuse or neglect.

Many people who go through prolonged trauma as a child try to hide or repress their experiences. Unfortunately, it’s nearly impossible for the mind and body to forget what it goes through.

As a result, it’s not uncommon for adults who have experienced CDT to have their own struggles. You still might deal with cognitive difficulties, including memory issues and a short attention span. You might have physical issues like digestive problems, muscle pain, or headaches.

One of the biggest issues adults dealing with CDT tend to face is a negative sense of self. Trauma can cause you to feel guilty or ashamed, even if you did nothing wrong. Because you’re dealing with insecure attachment issues, your relationships can suffer, too.

Adults with CDT are more likely to keep people at arm’s length. They tend to have trust issues and don’t know how to foster healthy relationships. Unfortunately, that can lead to even more mental health issues and open you up to unhealthy relationship dynamics. You might even be more prone to relationships where emotional or physical abuse occurs.

What Can You Do?

If you think you experienced continued trauma as a child and it’s affecting your quality of life now, it’s never too late to reach out for help.

Leaning on your support system and practicing self-care are great ways to combat the symptoms of CBT on a daily basis. However, the best thing you can do is to work with a mental health professional.

Therapy will help you better understand your CBT and exactly where it stems from. While stepping back to those childhood memories might sound overwhelming, it’s the best way to truly begin the healing process. Trauma therapy will also teach you healthy coping mechanisms so you can improve your emotional regulation and develop a greater sense of self.

If you’re ready to turn the page and start a new chapter without the lingering effects of CBT, contact me today for a consultation.