What does a trauma-informed assessment seek to do?

A trauma-informed assessment is designed specifically to identify and understand the impact of traumatic experiences on an individual, particularly a child in the context of child welfare. By determining the nature of traumatic events that the child has experienced, practitioners can better comprehend how such experiences may affect the child's emotional, behavioral, and psychological well-being. This understanding is vital for developing appropriate interventions and support systems that address the unique needs of the child stemming from their trauma.

In contrast, options that focus on educational deficiencies, financial stability, or a narrow evaluation of social skills do not align with the core purpose of a trauma-informed approach. These aspects may be relevant to a comprehensive assessment of a child’s situation, but they do not specifically aim to uncover and understand the effects of trauma, which is the primary focus of trauma-informed assessments. This approach ensures that the child's context is considered when formulating support and intervention strategies.