CTC Child Development & Trauma Impact 2

Question 1

Which developmental window is most critical for the formation of secure attachment, according to attachment theory?

Accepted Answer

The first 12–18 months of life

Answer

Bowlby's attachment theory identifies the first 12–18 months as the primary sensitive period when caregiver responsiveness shapes the child's internal working model.

Question 2

A 4-year-old who witnessed domestic violence begins wetting the bed again after being dry for a year. This is best described as:

Accepted Answer

Trauma-related regression

Answer

Regression to earlier developmental stages (e.g., enuresis) is a common trauma response in young children as the nervous system attempts to cope with overwhelming stress.

Question 3

Which brain structure is primarily responsible for detecting threat and triggering the fear response in traumatized children?

Accepted Answer

Amygdala

Answer

The amygdala acts as the brain's alarm system and becomes hyperactive in children with chronic trauma exposure, lowering the threshold for perceived danger.

Question 4

Erik Erikson's stage 'Initiative vs. Guilt' occurs during which age range and is most vulnerable to disruption by trauma?

Accepted Answer

3–6 years

Answer

Erikson's third stage (Initiative vs. Guilt) spans ages 3–6; trauma during this period can produce excessive shame and restrict the child's sense of agency and exploration.

Question 5

What is 'toxic stress' in the context of child development?

Accepted Answer

Strong, frequent, prolonged activation of stress systems without adequate adult support

Answer

Toxic stress refers to intense, repeated, or chronic adversity that activates the HPA axis without buffering from caring adults, disrupting brain architecture and organ systems.

(CTC) Childhood Trauma Consultant Certified Practice Test

(CTC) Childhood Trauma Consultant Certified Practice Test

CTC Child Development & Trauma Impact 2