Chronically Traumatized Children’s Ability and Willingness to Engage in Trauma Therapy: Experiences with The Sleeping Dogs Method

Abstract

Engaging chronically traumatized children in treatment is often challenging, as they frequently have a history of failed interventions and significant behavioral issues. The Sleeping Dogs method, a specialized approach for preparing these children for trauma treatment, focuses on stabilizing and building their intrinsic motivation to engage in treatment. The aim of the present study was to examine the Sleeping Dogs method by interviewing 16 children and their practitioners about helpful factors in fostering willingness to discuss traumatic experiences and engaging in trauma treatment. Results suggest that the Sleeping Dogs method is effective in helping children to become both willing and able to talk about their traumatic experiences and engage in trauma treatment. Children and practitioners especially valued the Sleeping Dogs method’s proactive and motivational approach with its focus on autonomy and the vital role of supportive adults in the child’s environment. Future studies should examine implementation processes, adherence factors, and the method’s efficacy across various child profiles.