Caroline Archer, Christine Gordon

Jessica Kingsley Publishers, May 1, 2006 – 253 pages

Most adopted children and their families will, sooner or later, encounter the challenges of dealing with unresolved attachment issues or early traumatic experiences. The Adoptive Family’s Guide to Trauma is an accessible introduction to understanding these challenges and helping children and their families to develop a shared language and understanding of one another. Steeped in the experience of the authors, the book offers a wealth of practical guidance and intervention in a no-nonsense style that will be readily understandable to both families and the professionals who work with them.

Case examples bring the issues to life, while sample letters addressed to the parent offer sensitive, jargon-free advice on the issues they are likely to encounter – whether it be dealing with anger and aggression, understanding sibling issues or how to react to sexualized behavior. The authors also explain some of the theoretical background to trauma to encourage a better understanding of the relationship between trauma, attachment and development.

The accessible combination of theoretical approaches and practical advice makes The Adoptive Family’s Guide to Trauma an ideal resource for social workers and adoptive or foster parents