Children, trauma and modern conflictCEFR B1
6 Apr 2026
Adapted from Guest Contributor, Global Voices • CC BY 3.0
Photo by Teah Rushing, Unsplash
Modern warfare now affects civilians far from the front lines. Children face direct physical harm and long-term psychological trauma. For example, a recent case in Gaza involved a very young child returned to family with injuries doctors said were consistent with torture. Across several regions, thousands of children have been killed or injured and millions displaced.
Professionals often use Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) screenings to assess trauma. The screening has ten questions about events such as lack of food or shelter, losing caregivers to illness or other causes, violence by a family member, and unwanted sexual contact with an adult. Experiencing three or more ACEs raises the risk of PTSD, depression, anxiety, suicide attempts and drug use, and it also increases later risk of illnesses such as cancer and heart problems.
Experts say care by a consistent caregiver, psychological support, stable environments and community networks are vital. Governments, international bodies, educators and aid workers must help protect children and rebuild safe childhoods.
Difficult words
- civilian — person not in the military or policecivilians
- trauma — serious physical or emotional injury
- torture — severe physical or mental harm by others
- screening — set of questions to find problemsscreenings
- adverse — harmful or negative for someone or something
- experience — event or situation a person lives throughExperiences
- caregiver — person who gives daily care to someonecaregivers
- psychological — related to the mind or to emotions
- depression — long period of deep sadness and low energy
- community — group of people living in one area
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- How can schools and teachers support children who have experienced ACEs and trauma?
- What actions can governments and aid workers take to create more stable environments for displaced children?
- How can local community networks help protect children and rebuild safe childhoods?
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