Review article
https://doi.org/10.26332/seemedj.v8i1.296
Two Case Presentations with Unexpected Outcomes after Childhood Trauma
Marta Okružnik Želalić
; General Hospital “Dr. Anđelko Višić”, Bjelovar, Croatia
*
Sven Želalić
; Clinical Hospital Merkur, Zagreb, Croatia
* Corresponding author.
Abstract
Bowlby developed the theory of attachment, describing it as a lasting emotional bond between human beings, manifested by seeking proximity to caregivers, especially in times of distress. Children adjust their behavior to prevent separation from their primary attachment figure – someone who provides support, protection and care. Attachment theory provides a favorable framework for understanding our two cases and their developmental paths.
We report two cases of female individuals, both of whom had a family history of psychiatric disease and experienced early parental separation with the grandparents playing significant roles in their upbringing. The two cases had radically different outcomes: one was diagnosed with schizophrenia and the other with generalized anxiety-depressive disorder. We attempt to analyze the reasons for the disparate outcomes of these two cases through the framework of numerous published studies that highlight protective and risk factors for psychiatric disease, studies that highlight the impact of traumatic events in childhood on a child’s biological, psychological and social development, as well as through the lens of psychodynamic and attachment theories.
Throughout the analysis, the importance of early intervention is made clear: both through various treatment modalities and preventive measures, as well as by providing successful mental health programs directed towards the destigmatization of children with mental health problems.
Keywords
child psychiatry; attachment theory; childhood trauma
Hrčak ID:
321058
URI
Publication date:
23.9.2024.
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