Being Trauma-Informed in Cambodia
The landscape of trauma-informed care has long been explored in various settings worldwide, from institutional spaces to therapeutic environments, particularly in developed nations. Yet, an often-overlooked aspect is the implementation of trauma-informed education in resource-poor countries, specifically in Cambodia.
Hagar International Cambodia, a non-governmental organization operating for over two decades, stands as a beacon of hope for many children in the region. Implementing a Western trauma-informed care model since 2012 and further developing a trauma-informed classroom model in 2015, Hagar's commitment to healing children scarred by trauma has been commendable.
The study delved into the experiences of educators and therapists working with these traumatized children. It underscored the convergence of trauma-informed themes, highlighting the pivotal role of encouragement, behavioral management strategies, collaborative relationships, trauma challenges, and healing methodologies.
The Socio-Historical Context of Education in Cambodia
Understanding the educational landscape of Cambodia necessitates acknowledging the haunting legacy of the Khmer Rouge regime, which devastated the nation's education system, leading to a severe dearth of educators and profound societal implications. Today, Cambodia continues to grapple with vulnerabilities, including human trafficking, poverty, and intergenerational trauma stemming from its painful history.
Hagar's Trauma-Informed Approach
Hagar's trauma-informed model, inspired by renowned psychiatrists and various practical classroom models, transcends the conventional medical approach. It comprehensively factors in historical, generational, and socio-cultural nuances that shape trauma, advocating a holistic, strengths-based, and context-sensitive understanding of trauma.
Creating a Safe and Supportive Environment
The impact of abuse and neglect often manifests in social behaviors, necessitating educators to cultivate an environment of trust, understanding, and empowerment. The trauma-informed lens provides a paradigm where children's behaviors, learning patterns, and relationships are understood and navigated with sensitivity.
Classroom Strategies and Relationship Dynamics
Various trauma-informed classroom strategies, echoing international models, emphasize the pivotal role of teachers in regulating emotions, building connections, diffusing conflicts, and fostering self-regulation in children. These approaches not only address behavioral challenges but also deepen the teacher-student bond.
Challenges and Healing
Beyond managing classroom behaviors, the study highlighted broader societal challenges that intersect with the trauma children face, such as poverty, domestic violence, and the lasting impact of Cambodia's history. Healing from trauma, both for children and educators, necessitates fostering connections, trust, and employing self-care strategies.
Implications and the Way Forward
This study underscores the need for professionals, especially in social work and education sectors, to comprehend and address trauma's complex impact. From understanding neurobiological implications to acknowledging the interplay of trauma with various life domains, a comprehensive approach is crucial.
In conclusion, while the task of eradicating trauma's impact might seem daunting, nurturing a trauma-informed approach in Cambodia's education sector is a noble pursuit. It necessitates awareness, training, and a commitment to engaging with trauma-affected individuals sensitively and effectively.
