What can be a long-term effect of trauma on children?

A long-term effect of trauma on children often manifests as avoidance of social gatherings. After experiencing trauma, children may develop anxiety and fear related to social interactions, which can lead to withdrawal from friends and activities they once enjoyed. This avoidance behavior can stem from feelings of insecurity, mistrust, or the desire to prevent further distressing experiences.

In contrast, being overly involved in family activities or having consistent academic achievement might not directly relate to the effects of trauma and are less likely outcomes of traumatic experiences. Rapid emotional recovery, while desirable, is not commonly observed in trauma-affected children; many struggle with ongoing emotional challenges. Thus, avoidance of social gatherings is a more representative and recognizable long-term effect of trauma in children.