What is a common behavior of young children suffering from PTSD?

Young children who experience PTSD often exhibit a behavior known as reenactment of traumatic events through play. This response allows them to process and express their feelings about the trauma in a way that feels safe for them. Through play, they may act out scenarios related to their trauma, which can help them make sense of their experiences and emotions.

In young children, play is a primary mode of communication and expression. By reenacting events, they might not only relive the experiences but also change the narrative to feel a sense of control over them. This behavior serves as a coping mechanism, showing how children internalize and respond to their traumatic experiences in a manner that aligns with their developmental stage.

Other behaviors associated with PTSD, such as repression of memories or long-term behavioral changes, can be more common in older children or adults. Complete withdrawal from social situations might also occur, but it is less frequently observed than play reenactment in young children who may instead oscillate between acting out and seeking comfort in familiar environments. Understanding this behavior is crucial for caregivers and therapists who aim to support children in healing from trauma.