What is a potential consequence of trauma on child development?

Trauma can significantly impact a child's development, leading to a range of emotional, psychological, and behavioral consequences. One notable effect is the increase in behavioral issues. When a child experiences trauma, they may struggle with feelings of anxiety, fear, and distress, which can manifest in various negative behaviors, such as aggression, withdrawal, or defiance. This is often a coping mechanism for their internal struggles and can disrupt their ability to function effectively in social and academic settings.

The other options, while they may represent positive traits or outcomes in some contexts, do not align with the common consequences associated with trauma. For instance, trauma typically does not lead to improved emotional regulation or the development of strong social skills; instead, it may hinder these areas, as children may find it challenging to manage their emotions or interact with peers in a healthy way. Enhanced memory retention is also unlikely to be associated with trauma since stress and trauma can negatively affect cognitive functions, including memory.