Objectives:- Identify secondary trauma patterns in children of veterans.
- Use trauma-informed language in therapy and education.
- Coordinate care with VA and DoD family support systems.
Statement of need:Military-connected families face unique and often underrecognized pressures that significantly influence children’s well-being, creating a critical need for professionals to be prepared with the knowledge and skills to support them effectively.
Abstract:Military life brings unique challenges that shape the functioning of the entire family, from repeated relocations to the stress of deployments and shifting support systems. These disruptions can strain routines, alter parental roles, and create uncertainty at home. For children, these pressures often surface as anxiety, difficulty maintaining friendships, academic interruptions, and emotional strain during transitions or separations. This session examines how these realities influence both family dynamics and child well-being, and offers practical strategies for professionals supporting military-connected youth.
