When working with children, young people, and families affected by trauma, clear and consistent language matters. A shared understanding of key terms can help practitioners, carers, and educators work together more effectively, and that’s exactly what the new Trauma Glossary from The Mulberry Bush offers.
This free, downloadable resource explains essential trauma-related concepts in plain, accessible language. Whether you’re new to trauma-informed practice or looking to deepen your knowledge, the glossary provides definitions for terms such as:
- Attachment – the emotional bond between a child and their primary caregiver, and how this impacts future relationships.
- Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) – potentially traumatic events in childhood, such as abuse, neglect, or household dysfunction.
- Developmental Trauma – the long-term impact of repeated, chronic trauma during childhood, affecting emotional regulation, trust, and self-worth.
- Vicarious Resilience – the positive personal growth professionals can experience through supporting others who have overcome trauma.
By creating a common language, the glossary helps bridge the gap between theory and practice, ensuring everyone involved in a child’s care understands and interprets these terms in the same way. For example, when a social worker and residential care worker both refer to a child’s “dysregulated behaviour,” they can be confident they are describing and addressing the same set of needs and triggers.
The glossary also offers a reminder that trauma-informed care isn’t just about understanding a child’s past, it’s about adapting our approach, environment, and communication to support recovery and resilience. This shared vocabulary makes it easier to:
- Write consistent care plans.
- Communicate effectively across multidisciplinary teams.
- Deliver training that is relevant and accessible.
- Help families and carers understand professional terminology.
📄 Download the Trauma Glossary here: Mulberry Bush Trauma Glossary (PDF)
At Social Care Skills, we believe that investing in shared understanding is a crucial step toward building truly trauma-informed environments. This glossary is an excellent tool to keep at hand, whether in your office, training sessions, or direct work with children and families.
