Christian Salvation Service>Learning Together: Understanding Trauma and Adolescents’ Emotional Development

Learning Together: Understanding Trauma and Adolescents’ Emotional Development

We recently held a workshop on adolescent emotional development and trauma awareness. It was a meaningful time of learning and reflection together with others in our field.

We learned that the brain continues developing until around age 25, particularly in areas responsible for reasoning, impulse control, and abstract thinking. This reminds us why adolescents may sometimes respond emotionally or impulsively, and why patience and guidance are so important during these years.

A significant message was that supporting someone with trauma isn't about trying to “fix” or “cure” them, but rather about accompanying them with empathy as they learn to cope, heal, and grow. Compassionate presence can make a profound difference. One key takeaway for us was that trauma can occur at any stage of life. It's part of the human experience.

We also discussed Dr. Daniel Siegel's concept of the Window of Tolerance—the range of emotional arousal within which a person can function most effectively. When we are within this window, we are better able to think clearly, make decisions, and respond with understanding. As social workers, being aware of both our own and others' windows of tolerance helps us recognize when it's the right time to engage, support, or give space.

This workshop was insightful and enriching. These learnings confirmed our service and remind us that by staying grounded, empathetic, and attuned, we can create a more nurturing and effective environment for healing and connection.

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