Exploring how the subjective wellbeing of young traumatized children with anxiety can be supported

Abstract

The experience of childhood trauma and adversity is related to a wide range of negative outcomes that may potentially span into adulthood and over a lifetime. Childhood anxiety is often the outcome of traumatic experiences, with some estimates indicating high prevalence in the South African context. However, very few studies have been done on the lived experiences of young children at the intersection of trauma, anxiety, and optimal ways in which they can be supported to ensure wellbeing. The purpose of this study was to explore and explain how the subjective wellbeing of young, traumatized children with anxiety could be supported. The study adopted a qualitative interpretive phenomenological research design that included elements of both van Manen’s method and the Innsbruck Vignette Research methodology, which was conducted during a comprehensive psychological support intervention. Theoretically, the study was guided by Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Systems Theory, in conjunction with fundamental tenets of Positive Psychology. The study was conducted at a primary school in Fairland, Gauteng. Participants included young children (n=5) with anxiety, as well as their parents and teachers. An integrative psychotherapeutic intervention process was conducted with the participants over an eight- to 10-week period. Data collection consisted of drawings, semi-structured questionnaires, observations, artifact collection, field notes, vignettes, voice recordings, and video recordings of each assessment and therapy session that took place. Data analysis was done by means of phenomenological theme analysis and a comprehensive set of vignettes. The findings from the study indicate that the subjective wellbeing of young, traumatized children with anxiety can be supported by (i) acknowledging the invisibility of anxiety at school, (ii) implementing an intuitive, integrative psycho-therapeutic approach, and (iii) mediating parental anxiety. The study was the first study to utilize the Innsbruck Vignette Research methodology with children with anxiety in a South African context. The study concludes with recommendations for practice, future research, and development as well as training suggestions.