How might hypervigilance manifest in a child who has experienced trauma?

Hypervigilance is a common response in children who have experienced trauma. It refers to a state of heightened alertness and sensitivity to their surroundings, where the child remains on guard for potential threats or dangers, even in situations that may not be harmful. This state can lead to increased nervousness as the child consistently scans their environment for signs of danger.

Manifestations of hypervigilance can include behaviors such as being easily startled, having difficulty relaxing, and showing signs of anxiety in response to normal stimuli. The persistent state of being alert can overwhelm the child, leading to elevated anxiety levels and difficulty in focusing on tasks or social interactions.

Other choices do not align with the typical responses associated with trauma. For instance, excessive relaxation in new environments contradicts the hypervigilant state, as a child experiencing trauma may feel more anxious and insecure. Heightened creativity, while a positive outcome for some in dealing with trauma, is not a direct manifestation of hypervigilance. Similarly, an absence of fear in potentially dangerous situations would indicate a lack of awareness or care regarding peril, which is opposite to how hypervigilance presents itself. Thus, increased nervousness and alertness are indeed indicative of hypervigilance in children who have