DESCRIPTION:

Module 3 will address the different nervous systems (i.e. central, peripheral, sensory-somatic, and autonomic) and the functions they provide will be studied. Parts of the brain (i.e. brain stem, limbic system, and cerebral cortex) and the role they play when children and adolescents are exposed to a traumatic experience. Major research and important historical literature through the evolution of the long- and short-term effects of trauma on children and adolescents will be examined.

OUTLINE:

• Structure of the nervous system
  • Central nervous system
  • Peripheral nervous system
• Autonomic nervous system
  • Parasympathetic nervous system
• Triune brain theory
• Response to threat and role of adrenaline and cortisol
  • Normal v. deprived brain development 
• Developmental neurobiology of PTSD
• Factors affecting degree of trauma inflicted by events
• Short and long term effects of trauma
• Adverse Childhood Experiences Study (ACE)

OBJECTIVES:

1. Communicate a working knowledge of how the central nervous system, peripheral nervous system, sensory-somatic nervous system, autonomic nervous system, the brain stem, limbic system, and cerebral cortex contribute to the symptoms of traumatic stress in children and adolescents and their management.
2. Synthesize major research and important historical literature through the evolution of trauma impact on children and adolescents to include the Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) Study.