Early Chronic Trauma – Its Impact on Behavior

Early Chronic Trauma – Its Impact on Behavior

presented by Penny Davis

In terms of discipline, educators spend 90% of their time managing the behavior of 10% of their students. Most of these “high fliers” have histories of chronic trauma (abuse/neglect). This workshop will help teachers understand the impact of trauma on brain development, self- regulation and behavior and will explore with them some effective tools and strategies for the school and classroom. The workshop will also include a brief look at “situational trauma” (i.e. the MPHS shooting) and the impact this may have on children, families and communities.

Presenter Biography: 
Penny Davis received her Bachelor of Arts degree in sociology from the University of Alberta in Canada, and a Master of Arts degree in Human Development from Pacific Oaks College in Pasadena, CA. She has been an adjunct faculty member in the Child Development Department since 1986, where she still teaches a full semester class entitled Parent--Child Interaction. Currently Penny hold a full time position at a second community college as Director of the Foster and Kinship Care Education program. This program provides continuing education classes and workshops for licensed foster parents, kinship providers and others. For the past five years, Penny has focused a great deal of reading and research on the impact of chronic abuse and/or neglect on attachment, brain development and behavior. She is passionate about sharing this important information and it’s ‘fit’ with Positive Discipline and she has presented this material at many conferences and seminars throughout the nation.