Complex Trauma differs from Single Event Trauma. Instead of a single time-limited event, complex trauma involves prolonged or repeated exposure to life-threatening situations. Complex trauma (also referred to a "Complex PTSD") occurs in both children and adults. Like Single Event Trauma, it can activate the survival response of fight, flight, freeze or submit and lead to symptoms of PTSD.

Complex Trauma in Adults

Adults with prolonged or repeated exposure to danger are at risk for developing complex PTSD. For example:

·    Military combat is a well-known source of PTSD that affects up to 20% of veterans.

·    Victims of domestic violence or sex trafficking

·    Jobs that involve helping others who have been affected by trauma—like police, firemen, ER staff, paramedics, EMTs and other health care providers—can result in "secondary trauma", which increases the risk for job burnout as well as long-term psychological effects resembling PTSD.

Complex Trauma in Children

The ongoing experience of danger during childhood (prior to 18 years of age) is the most common form of complex trauma. It can result from any of the following events:

• Emotional abuse, humiliation or shaming
• Physical abuse or threats of violence
• Sexual abuse
• Neglect in providing basic needs of food, clothing and shelter
• Household dysfunction due to mental illness, drug or alcohol abuse by the parents
• Separation, divorce or death of a parent
• Suicide or imprisonment of a family member
  

      [See "Resources" tab for more on Adverse Childhood Experiences and "ACE score").]

Complex trauma affects 10-12% of US children before the age of 18.  Because it often occurs in relation to the parents or caregivers, it affects the child's developing attachment system and the kind of bond the child will form with those he depends on.  Due to their developing brain and limited ability to defend themselves, children are far more vulnerable to trauma than adults, and therefore longer treatment is needed to provide relief. 

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