CYC605 - Child Trauma and Abuse

Outline information
Semester
Schools offering this subject
Last revision date 2023-10-02 00:07:37.841
Last review date 2023-12-04 00:15:01.812

Subject Title
Child Trauma and Abuse

Subject Description

This course provides students with the knowledge needed to develop effective interventions with clients who have experienced abuse and/or trauma, initially in Field Placement settings and subsequently in the field as Child and Youth Care Practitioners. This includes developmental and complex trauma, and trauma relating to specific populations (FNIM, refugees and immigrants, witnesses of domestic/IP violence). The focus is on neurosequential interventions appropriate to CYC practitioners grounded in relational practice.

In this course, students examine the concepts of trauma and abuse in personal, practical and theoretical contexts. They investigate the difference between stress and trauma and are able to explain conditions leading to possible trauma. In addition, students will acquire a basic understanding of how trauma might affect brain development and how that may impact on child and adolescent development. Throughout the course, the students will be learning and practicing strategies and activities specifically recommended in trauma informed practice.

Students will also critically reflect on how to manage secondary trauma, and how to cope with the demands of a profession that deals with traumatized victims on a regular basis. Through case studies and reflective assignments, students strengthen their understanding of the cognitive foundations of trauma and abuse theory and the role of resiliency that will inform their work in the field.

Credit Status
One credit

Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this subject the student will be able to:

1.     Review the definitions and reporting requirements of child abuse in Ontario

2.     Examine the impact of trauma, abuse, relational health from a developmental, holistic and strength-based perspective

3.     Assess the strengths and needs of children and youth who have experienced trauma/abuse, including complex responses impacted by developmental, environmental, physical, emotional, social and mental health challenges in order to promote positive change (VLO 1)

4.     Demonstrate the application of theories and principles that inform the current trauma informed practices. (VLO 2)

5.     Determine and apply evidence-based techniques specific to the CYC practitioner in case study scenarios, assignments and application to field placement (VLO 4).

6.     Develop self-care strategies using self-inquiry and reflection processes to promote self-awareness and to enhance practice as a child and youth care practitioner. Specifically, assess the impact of burnout, vicarious trauma and self-care strategies (VLO 7)

7.     Integrate trauma informed theory with practice knowledge through the use of case studies.

 

Essential Employability Skills

    •  Communicate clearly, concisely and correctly in the written, spoken and visual form that fulfils the purpose and meets the needs of the audience.

    •  Apply a systematic approach to solve problems.

    •  Use a variety of thinking skills to anticipate and solve problems.

    •  Locate, select, organize, and document information using appropriate technology and information systems.

    •  Show respect for diverse opinions, values, belief systems, and contributions of others.

    •  Interact with others in groups or teams in ways that contribute to effective working relationships and the achievement of goals.

    •  Manage the use of time and other resources to complete projects.

    •  Take responsibility for one's own actions, decisions, and consequences.

Academic Integrity
Seneca upholds a learning community that values academic integrity, honesty, fairness, trust, respect, responsibility and courage. These values enhance Seneca's commitment to deliver high-quality education and teaching excellence, while supporting a positive learning environment. Ensure that you are aware of Seneca's Academic Integrity Policy which can be found at: http://www.senecapolytechnic.ca/about/policies/academic-integrity-policy.html Review section 2 of the policy for details regarding approaches to supporting integrity. Section 2.3 and Appendix B of the policy describe various sanctions that can be applied, if there is suspected academic misconduct (e.g., contract cheating, cheating, falsification, impersonation or plagiarism).

Please visit the Academic Integrity website http://open2.senecac.on.ca/sites/academic-integrity/for-students to understand and learn more about how to prepare and submit work so that it supports academic integrity, and to avoid academic misconduct.

Discrimination/Harassment
All students and employees have the right to study and work in an environment that is free from discrimination and/or harassment. Language or activities that defeat this objective violate the College Policy on Discrimination/Harassment and shall not be tolerated. Information and assistance are available from the Student Conduct Office at student.conduct@senecapolytechnic.ca.

Accommodation for Students with Disabilities
The College will provide reasonable accommodation to students with disabilities in order to promote academic success. If you require accommodation, contact the Counselling and Accessibility Services Office at ext. 22900 to initiate the process for documenting, assessing and implementing your individual accommodation needs.

Camera Use and Recordings - Synchronous (Live) Classes
Synchronous (live) classes may be delivered in person, in a Flexible Learning space, or online through a Seneca web conferencing platform such as MS Teams or Zoom. Flexible Learning spaces are equipped with cameras, microphones, monitors and speakers that capture and stream instructor and student interactions, providing an in-person experience for students choosing to study online.

Students joining a live class online may be required to have a working camera in order to participate, or for certain activities (e.g. group work, assessments), and high-speed broadband access (e.g. Cable, DSL) is highly recommended. In the event students encounter circumstances that impact their ability to join the platform with their camera on, they should reach out to the professor to discuss. Live classes may be recorded and made available to students to support access to course content and promote student learning and success.

By attending live classes, students are consenting to the collection and use of their personal information for the purposes of administering the class and associated coursework. To learn more about Seneca's privacy practices, visit Privacy Notice.