Abstract: Trauma-sensitive approach to strengthening trans children - beyond pathologizing treatment

Trans children and adolescents are particularly vulnerable to trauma caused by social factors. Their sense of congruence and transitional happiness are often unstable because they are undermined by trans-hostile micro- and macro-trauma. A trauma-sensitive approach, as advocated by Bessel van der Kolk (who focuses on body-based trauma memory) and Pete Walker (who deals with complex PTSD from childhood experiences), can address these issues more effectively than conventional therapeutic approaches.

• Happiness can be achieved sustainably when trauma-induced numbness, shame, and self-alienation are alleviated through physical, creative, and interpersonal processes (e.g., somatic mindfulness and inner child work).
• Altruistic quality of life becomes possible when children learn that their reactions were survival strategies and that they are now free to form different, more compassionate relationships.
• A solidary quality of life is created when self-healing is embedded in relationships and community, including empowerment and border protection, rather than happening in isolation.

Reference to the JBI model:

The trauma-sensitive approach corresponds to the JBI understanding of evidence-based practice, as it:

• takes the experience of traumatised trans children seriously;
• is based on sound therapeutic expertise (body-, attachment- and development-oriented);
• is based on evidence without reinforcing standardising or stigmatising diagnoses.

Rather than control and diagnosis, the approach focuses on resonance, regulation, and the restoration of self-efficacy — the basic prerequisites for sustainable well-being.