Young South African adults in the Johannesburg area and their experiences of coping with childhood trauma

Abstract

Abstract: This study explored the experiences of young South African adults’ coping with childhood trauma in the Johannesburg area. The purpose of the study was to investigate: their experiences and descriptions of childhood trauma; the coping mechanisms that they utilised to overcome the adverse effects of childhood trauma; and the support systems that were imperative in helping them to develop resilience and ultimately overcome their childhood trauma. A generic qualitative approach within the social constructivist paradigm was used for this study. There were five participants who were interviewed using a semistructured interview. The interviews were then transcribed and analysed using QDA Miner. A thematic analysis was used to generate categories of information. The focus areas that were identified after the thematic analysis were the experiences and effects of trauma, coping mechanisms, support systems, resilience and hopes with regard to this research. The findings confirmed what the research says about adverse effects as all participants struggled with adverse effects due to the childhood trauma. These adverse effects included depression and anxiety. The participants all started off by using maladaptive coping mechanisms to cope with their childhood trauma. However, they have since adopted more positive, healthy coping mechanisms. Teachers, therapists, family and significant others have all proven to be important support systems that helped participants to build resilience and overcome their childhood trauma.M.Ed. (Educational Psychology