Stress and Trauma

Toxic stress and trauma are common occurrences that can create physiological and psychological changes with negative short- and long-term effects. Research has clearly established a correlation between adversity and negative outcomes. However, there are a number of factors involved in the development, intensity, and severity of outcomes, specifically the type of stress or trauma experiences, temperament, personality type, repertoire of coping skills, and level of resiliency. This chapter reviews the definitions of different types of stress, the neurological changes that can occur as a result of adversity, common and paradoxical reactions to trauma, and the ability of coping skills and resilience to change the trajectory from negative outcomes to opportunities for positive growth.