EVALUATING THE ROLE OF SOCIAL WORK IN MITIGATING CHILDHOOD TRAUMA: CASE STUDIES FROM FOSTER CARE FACILITIES IN THE USA


Adejo Samuel Egbunu, Yvonne Makafui Cudjoe-Mensah
1 Alabama A&M University, 2 Department of Sociology, University of Ghana, Ghana
Abstract
Childhood trauma, often categorized under the concept of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), refers to potentially harmful events or environments that disrupt a child's sense of safety and stability during early development. Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) significantly impact emotional, mental, and physical well-being, increasing the risk of chronic health conditions, behavioral disorders, and long-term developmental challenges. Foster care facilities play a vital role in mitigating the effects of childhood trauma, with social workers acting as key facilitators in fostering recovery and resilience. Trauma-informed care (TIC) has gained recognition as an essential framework in child welfare systems, emphasizing safety, trust, collaboration, and empowerment in therapeutic interventions. This study evaluates the role of social work in mitigating childhood trauma within U.S. foster care facilities by analyzing case studies that demonstrate best practices, challenges, and outcomes. Findings indicate that social workers implementing trauma-informed interventions, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), art therapy, and peer support programs, significantly improve emotional regulation and reduce symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among foster children. However, challenges persist, including high caseloads, funding constraints, limited access to mental health services, and systemic placement instability. The study highlights the need for increased funding, standardized training in TIC for social workers, and stronger community partnerships to enhance trauma recovery efforts. Adopting holistic and culturally responsive approaches, foster care systems can create supportive environments promoting resilience and emotional well-being among vulnerable children. This research contributes to the discourse on improving child welfare policies and the effectiveness of social work in addressing childhood trauma.
Keywords: Childhood Trauma, Foster Care, Social Work, Trauma Recovery, Adverse Childhood Experiences (Aces)
Journal Name :
EPRA International Journal of Socio-Economic and Environmental Outlook(SEEO)

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Published on : 2025-05-13

Vol : 12
Issue : 5
Month : May
Year : 2025
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