Early Childhood Trauma: How It Shapes Trust, Temperament, and Relationships

Early childhood trauma—whether it stems from abuse, neglect, loss, abandonment, or the emotional invisibility some children experience—can leave deep, lasting impressions on a child’s developing brain and sense of self. While each child processes trauma differently, research consistently shows that early adversity can have profound consequences on how children learn to trust, form relationships, and regulate their emotions.

Trauma experienced during the critical early years—especially within the caregiving environment—can disrupt a child’s ability to build a secure attachment (Bowlby, 1988). Children who endure inconsistent care, emotional neglect, or abuse often develop internal models of the world as unsafe, and people as unreliable. This mistrust can carry into adulthood, making intimacy difficult and fostering anxiety in close relationships.

Temperament, too, can be shaped by trauma. While temperament has a biological basis, traumatic stress may intensify traits such as emotional reactivity, impulsivity, or withdrawal. Chronic exposure to stress and fear can lead to a heightened fight-or-flight response, altering a child's baseline for safety and emotional regulation (Perry & Szalavitz, 2006).

Relational trauma—whether overt (abuse, abandonment) or covert (being ignored, unseen, or dismissed)—also contributes to feelings of shame and low self-worth. Children who grow up believing they are “too much” or “not enough” often carry these messages into adulthood, affecting their ability to connect with others and feel emotionally safe.

For immigrant children or those forced to relocate due to political conflict, poverty, or family instability, trauma may be compounded. Uprooting a child from familiar surroundings can increase a sense of helplessness and loss. These children may grieve the loss of extended family, cultural identity, or language, all while navigating a new world where they may feel alien or misunderstood (Suárez-Orozco et al., 2010). The layering of trauma—combined with language and cultural shifts—can challenge even the most resilient children.

Importantly, this article merely scratches the surface. Trauma in early childhood can also result from the death of a parent or sibling, long hospitalizations, separation from primary caregivers, or living in a home where emotional expression was punished or ignored. Children may not always express their pain in ways adults recognize—some become angry or defiant, while others withdraw and internalize.

Healing is possible. With consistent support, trauma-informed care, and trusted adults who create safe, affirming spaces, children can begin to rebuild trust and form healthier relationships. Therapies like EMDR, trauma-focused CBT, and play therapy have shown promise in helping children make sense of their early experiences and reclaim their inner strength.

If you suspect a child you know has experienced early trauma, reach out. Support from educators, clinicians, and family can make a lifelong difference.

Eugene Roginsky, LCSW, is the CEO of Bridge2Horizon Psychotherapy and Counseling Services PLLC, located in Lincolnshire, Illinois. For nearly 30 years, Eugene has been working with individuals, couples, and families—specializing in trauma recovery using EMDR and other evidence-based modalities. He is also a speaker on topics related to trauma, relationships, and emotional wellness.

References

• Bowlby, J. (1988). A Secure Base: Parent-Child Attachment and Healthy Human Development. Basic Books.

• Perry, B. D., & Szalavitz, M. (2006). The Boy Who Was Raised as a Dog. Basic Books.

• Suárez-Orozco, C., Todorova, I. L. G., & Louie, J. (2010). Making Up for Lost Time: The Experience of Separation and Reunification Among Immigrant Families. Family Process, 41(4), 625–643.