In this article it is proposed that allostatic load may be a useful concept to describe the physiological dysregulation that occurs in maltreated children through repeated exposure to traumatic events, the chronic stress of inconsistent and inadequate care giving, and the disruptions of attachments and instability caused by foster care placements. In order to counteract the deleterious effects of allostatic load, a trauma-informed approach to the assessment and treatment of children suffering from this condition is proposed. Using a case example to illustrate the application of concepts, this article offers five recommendations for clinical work with maltreated children, especially those in foster care. The principles are illustrated by a case study. References (Published Abstract)
Allostatic Load: Considering the Burden of Cumulative Trauma on Children in Foster Care
NCJ Number
232235
Journal
Journal of Child and Adolescent Trauma Volume: 2 Issue: 4 Dated: October-December 2009 Pages: 242-252
Date Published
October 2010
Length
11 pages
Annotation
This study examined whether allostatic load may be a useful concept to describe the physiological dysregulation that occurs in maltreated children.
Abstract