Big T little t: trauma begins with T and t

“Big T trauma” and “little t trauma” are terms often used in psychology and trauma studies to differentiate between different levels or types of traumatic experiences. While there is no universally accepted definition or categorization, these terms are commonly used to describe the varying degrees of trauma people may experience.

Big T Trauma: Big T trauma refers to major, life-threatening events or experiences that are typically seen as more severe and have a profound impact on an individual’s life. These traumatic events are usually single incidents or a series of events that are significantly distressing and overwhelming. Examples of big T traumas include natural disasters, war, physical or sexual assault, severe accidents, or witnessing violence.  These events are often what people associate PTSD with. 

Little t Trauma: Little t trauma, on the other hand, refers to more subtle or chronic experiences that are distressing but may not involve immediate or life-threatening danger. These traumas are often less dramatic or obvious but can still have a cumulative and lasting impact on an individual’s well-being.  These traumas are often repetitive, ongoing, and cumulative in nature, and they can have a significant impact on an individual’s psychological well-being. Little t traumas can include experiences such as emotional neglect, verbal abuse, chronic humiliation, bullying, discrimination, loss of a loved one, witnessing repetitive distressing events, or growing up in a dysfunctional family environment.  While these traumas may not be as immediately overwhelming as big T traumas, they can still have long-lasting effects on an individual’s mental health and may contribute to symptoms like anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and difficulties in relationships.

You may also have heard the phrase Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs.)  This phrase originates from a specific research study that was conducted from 1995 – 1997.  The initial ACEs study involved over 17,000 participants who completed questionnaires about their childhood experiences and their current health status. While there are of course many other adverse experiences that can occur in childhood, the study assessed ten specific types of adverse childhood experiences: physical, emotional, and sexual abuse, neglect, household dysfunction (such as witnessing domestic violence or substance abuse), parental separation or divorce, having a parent or primary caregiver with a mental illness, and having a parent or close family member that has been incarcerated.  

Several of these ACEs could generally be considered “little t” traumas because they overwhelm a child’s ability to cope and negatively impact their physical, emotional, or psychological well-being. Remember that big T trauma occurs when a child’s safety, security, or sense of self is threatened, and they do not have the necessary support systems to process and recover from the experience. Here are some ways in which ACEs can become a Big T trauma:

1. Lack of Supportive Relationships: If a child experiences ACEs without the presence of caring and supportive adults or a reliable support network, they may struggle to process their emotions and experiences. The absence of a safe and nurturing environment can intensify the impact of ACEs and contribute to the development of trauma.
2. Powerlessness and Control: ACEs often involve a loss of control or powerlessness, such as experiencing abuse, neglect, or witnessing domestic violence. These situations can lead to a sense of helplessness and vulnerability, which can contribute to the development of trauma.
3. Cumulative Effect: ACEs often occur in clusters, meaning that children may experience multiple traumatic events or adverse circumstances over an extended period. The cumulative effect of multiple ACEs can increase the likelihood of developing trauma, as the ongoing stress and lack of respite can overwhelm a child’s coping mechanisms.
4. Disrupted Development: ACEs can disrupt a child’s normal developmental process, affecting their emotional regulation, cognitive development, and ability to form healthy relationships. These disruptions can have long-lasting consequences and contribute to the development of trauma.
5. Lack of Validation and Understanding: If children do not receive validation, understanding, or appropriate support following ACEs, it can further exacerbate the traumatic impact. Dismissal, denial, or lack of acknowledgment of their experiences can prevent healing and recovery.

It’s important to note that not all children who experience ACEs will experience long term effects of trauma, as individual resilience and support systems can play a protective role. However, when ACEs overwhelm a child’s capacity to cope and lack the necessary support systems, the risk of Big T trauma significantly increases.