Trauma, Resilience and the Power of Human Connection: Reflections from the Field of Cambodia

Abstract

Political and economic instability, poverty, war and terrorism, are just some of the harsh realities facing many young people globally. Various theoretical frameworks that conceptualize resilience exist in Western countries, yet there is limited research that looks specifically at resilience for children and young people in developing nations who have experienced significant trauma. Earlier research conducted with staff at Hagar International Cambodia (hereafter Hagar) indicated that for a child, recovery from trauma was contingent on their relationships and their ability to establish trust and connection to others. Hagar is a global human rights organisation, providing wraparound support services for women and children who have survived the most extreme cases of human rights abuse. There is much to be gained from the insight and lived experiences of those who have risen from complex trauma situations, such as the young people from Hagar. As such, research is currently being conducted which examines the resiliency factors that have contributed to these young people’s overall wellbeing. This article will explore the intersection between relationships, trust and power of human connection for trauma survivors in Cambodia, bringing together current research with reflections from the field of Cambodia.