Trauma Assessment Checklist

To Schedule an Appointment, Contact:

John P. Harris, LCSW
312-306-9503
johnpharris@comcast.net

Old Town Neighborhood, Chicago.

The following variables can help to assess the degree of trauma associated with childhood abuse. It is important to note that these can only be used as a guide. What is most important is the meaning a particular child gives to these experiences:

· The age of the child – generally, the younger the child, the more traumatic the abuse. This can be attributed to the few coping mechanisms available during early childhood as well as the impact of the abuse on later development.

· The age of the perpetrator – the older the perpetrator the greater the trauma.

· The nature of the relationship between the victim and the perpetrator – greater trauma occurs when the perpetrator is in a position of trust and authority over the child.

· Frequency – how often the abuse occurred and over what time period.

· Intrusiveness – sexual abuse encompasses a broad range of behaviors, from fondling to penetration – the more intrusive the behavior the greater the trauma.

· Coercion and violence – The degree of force and intimidation, and presence of violence as part of the experience, are associated with greater trauma.