What Is Childhood Trauma?

Childhood trauma refers to distressing or overwhelming experiences that occur before the age of 18, including physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, neglect, household dysfunction, or exposure to violence. Research consistently shows that adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) can have lasting effects on mental, emotional, and physical health well into adulthood. These experiences shape how we regulate emotions, form relationships, and respond to stress, often in ways that are not immediately obvious. Understanding your early history is a meaningful step toward making sense of patterns in your adult life.

About This Assessment

This assessment is designed for adults who want to better understand how their childhood experiences may be influencing them today. Drawing on validated screening frameworks, it asks about common types of adverse experiences and invites you to reflect on how those experiences may have shaped your thinking, behavior, and wellbeing over time. This tool is not a clinical diagnosis. It is an educational resource intended to promote self-awareness and informed decision-making. If your results raise concerns, we encourage you to speak with a qualified mental health professional.