Abstract
When trauma precedes or coincides with the development of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), a unique type of OCD develops. This is because, as the research shows, the neurophysiological reactions of trauma become “trapped” in the physiology of the client’s nervous system. Therefore, it is proposed that trauma adds an additional dimension to the treatment of OCD in paediatric and adolescent clients. It then becomes necessary to utilize a trauma-based treatment method, such as Somatic Experiencing™, to assist in resolving the obsessions and compulsions. The developmental features of adolescence are of particular interest to the area of educational psychology. It has been established through research cited in this thesis that childhood trauma significantly affects neuronal development and Autonomic Nervous System regulation, and creates a greater predisposition to mental illness in adolescence and adulthood.. The adolescent brain is well known for the increased expression of dopamine in the prelimbic Prefrontal Cortex which is instrumental in increasing motivational salience. Due to this factor, associations formed by the adolescent between a behaviour and the environment are more difficult to change compared with other maturational stages. (Baker, Bisby & Richardson, 2016)...
Ph.D. (Educational Psychology)