This course looks at why children who have experienced abuse and neglect can find it difficult to trust and connect with their foster carers. Following a brief discussion about the impacts of developmental trauma, Dan goes on to explain who he calls ‘blocked trust’ and ‘blocked care’. 

The discussion continues with a brief introduction on some of the neurobiological processes that underpin these experiences. This gives us an understanding of the ‘why’, and builds your understanding of why these young people can find it so hard to trust and relate freely with adults and carers. Following this topics Dan introduces you to PACE and other issues such as misplaced mistrust.

Course Curriculum

  • 1

    Course Information

    • About Dan

    • Course Length
  • 2

    Why Children Mistrust Good Care

    • Introduction to Developmental Trauma

    • Blocked Trust

    • Blocked Care

    • Social Neurobiology
  • 3

    How To Work With Children Who Mistrust Good Care

    • Understanding PACE

    • Mindful Parenting

    • Misplaced Mistrust

    • Residential Care

About the instructor

Psychologist

Dan Hughes Ph.D

Dan Hughes, Ph.D. is a clinical psychologist with a limited practice in South Portland, Maine.  He founded and developed Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy (DDP), the treatment of children who have experienced abuse and neglect and who demonstrate ongoing problems related to attachment and trauma.   He has spent over 40 years helping children and youth reach their full potential and reconnect with others in their lives.