Deep Dive into Trauma

**Exploring the Intersection of Trauma, Identity, and Intersectionality in True Crime**

Welcome to the blog post derived from "True Crime Human Design," a podcast hosted by Corrine Araujo. This episode explores the intersection of trauma, identity, and intersectionality, delving into how these elements shape individuals' experiences and behaviors. I aim to provide a deeper understanding of true crime stories and the complex layers that constitute trauma through an energetic lens. 

**Getting Started: The Purpose and Gratitude**

Hi loves, thank you all for joining me on this incredible journey. Diving headfirst into podcasting has been a transformative experience. Reflecting on your amazing response, I realize how essential it was to take this step. It feels like, "why did I not do this sooner?" But everything happens in its own time. 

I've been connecting with as many people as possible to understand what resonates most with my audience. That's why this series will switch things up a bit. It's all about providing more context, information, and awareness. If there's anything specific you want me to address, feel free to reach out. While I may not be able to cover everything, I am always open to inspiration and ideas.

**What is Trauma?**

My definition of trauma significantly differs from that of the American Psychological Association (APA). Trauma is a visceral response caused by emotionally disturbing or life-threatening events, which manifests externally in harmful behaviors and emotions. It affects an individual's mental, physical, social, emotional, and spiritual well-being. 

Rather than being a mental thought, trauma is a visceral response. The notion of "just letting it go" is misleading; trauma doesn’t care about mindset changes. 

**Trauma in Children: Age and Events Matter**

When discussing trauma, we need to consider age and events. Children's sense of safety relies heavily on their caregivers. Traumatic events, especially those involving neglect, abuse, or any form of danger, can disrupt their developmental goals. 

For instance, a child experiencing neglect may not reach developmental milestones because their need for survival outweighs the need for connection. Their focus shifts to basic needs like food and safety, which stunts their social and emotional growth.

**Types of Trauma**

There are multiple types of trauma, each affecting individuals differently:

- Terrorism and Violence

- Community Violence

- Complex Trauma

- Disaster

- Early Childhood Trauma

- Intimate Partner Violence

- Medical Trauma

- Traumatic Grief

- Physical Abuse

- Sex Trafficking

- Refugee Trauma

- Bullying

Understanding these categories helps to grasp the myriad ways trauma can influence a person's life.

**Populations at Risk**

Certain groups are disproportionately exposed to trauma. These include:

- Substance abuse groups

- Military and veteran families

- Youth experiencing homelessness

- LGBTQ+ youth

- Individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities

Intersectionality, coined by Kimberlé Crenshaw, provides a framework to understand how various aspects of identity intersect to impact an individual's exposure to and experience of trauma.

**Faces of Oppression**

Oppression can manifest in various forms, including:

- Culture of Silence

- Exploitation

- Marginalization

- Cultural Imperialism

- Violence

These facets of oppression create environments where trauma can happen more frequently and be more damaging.

**Complex Trauma and Intersectionality**

Complex trauma stems from prolonged or repetitive trauma, especially during childhood. It involves relationships and power dynamics, profoundly affecting an individual’s ability to cope with emotions. Recognizing this is crucial in understanding trauma's deep-seated impact.

**Wraparound Services: The Missing Link**

Quality care and support are often lacking, leading to extended suffering and re-victimization. Effective wraparound services, which provide continuous and cohesive support, are essential for proper recovery.

**Conclusion**

Understanding trauma through the lens of intersectionality and complex trauma offers a more nuanced view of human experiences. Awareness and education are critical for fostering empathy and support for those affected by trauma.

**Call to Action**

If you've enjoyed this exploration of trauma and intersectionality, please subscribe to "True Crime Human Design," leave a review, and share it with your community. For deeper insights, feel free to access my recorded masterclass, Let’s Talk Trauma Theory. Let's continue to connect and raise awareness together. Thank you for being a part of this journey. 

Corrine Araujo, Host of True Crime Human Design