In this three-part series, we'll explore what common childhood trauma adaptations are, why and how they can be like superpowers (not only when we’re children but also as adults), why and how these adaptations can also be like proverbial kryptonite, how to discern the difference, and what to do if we’re aware that our own childhood trauma adaptations have become kryptonite in our adult lives.

Childhood trauma has the potential to negatively shape a child's development.

Experiences of trauma, such as abuse or neglect, disrupt normal developmental trajectories, forcing children to develop coping mechanisms that help them cope with painful experiences. These attempts are essentially survival strategies.

These attempts fall into two buckets: cognitive and behavioral adaptations (meaning the thoughts and behaviors that form as survival attempts).

Cognitive adaptations involve changes in perception, belief systems, and thought processes, which aim to protect the child from emotional pain or to rationalize or make sense of their experiences. Behavioral adaptations are actions or reactions the child develops to avoid harm, manage stress, or navigate complex social environments (at home, school, church, etc).

Let’s explore some common childhood trauma cognitive and behavioral adaptations so you can, perhaps, begin to see yourself and your own personal history more clearly.

Hyper-vigilance

Characterized by an “always-on alertness” to danger (be it real or perceived), this adaptation stems from the body's fight-or-flight response, which becomes heightened in those of us who’ve experienced trauma. The cognitive belief that danger is omnipresent, prompts........

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