THE IMPACTS OF CHILDHOOD TRAUMA ON ADOLESCENTS RISK BEHAVIOUR: A CASE STUDY

Abstract

Childhood trauma can have profound and long-lasting effects on adolescent risk behaviours. Adolescents who have experienced childhood trauma may face a variety of
challenges, including emotional difficulties, behavioural changes, trust issues, low selfesteem, academic struggles, physical health effects, a higher probability of mental health disorders, involvement with risky behaviours, interpersonal relationship issues, and the need for resilience and coping strategies. This study aims to explore how childhood trauma impacts adolescents’ risk behaviour and what coping skills adolescents use to handle trauma. Participant is a Muslim adolescent girl with an unwanted pregnancy. This study used purposive sampling with several established criteria. The semi-structured interview was conducted at a shelter home in Selangor, and the participant was given a diary to help her express her feelings. The data were analysed using a thematic analysis approach to get the essence from the participants’ perspective. Five themes have emerged from the study: 1) Emotional and Psychological Distress, 2) Maladaptive and Risky Behaviours, 3) Social and Relational Difficulties, 4) Academic and Functional Impairment, and 5) Physical Health Consequences. Ultimately, childhood trauma considerably raises the likelihood of getting involved with risky behaviours during adolescence due to the profound effect it has on emotional, cognitive, social, and physiological development. Initial detection and intervention to address trauma-related issues and encourage healthy coping skills are vital for reducing the likelihood of negative consequences and improving the well-being of adolescents who have experienced childhood trauma.