Psychological and Behavioral Manifestations of Trauma in Children in Bafanji Village, North West Region-Cameroon

This study examined the psychological and behavioral manifestations of trauma among children in Bafanji village, Northwest Region of Cameroon, a community affected by the ongoing socio-political crisis in the Anglophone regions. Using a quantitative cross-sectional survey design, data were collected from 85 children aged 6 to 17 years using structured questionnaires and standardized instruments, including the Child PTSD Symptom Scale and the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire. Findings show that children in Bafanji experience multiple trauma-related symptoms, with increased arousal (M=1.19) and negative thoughts and feelings (M=1.18) emerging as the most frequent trauma indicators. Emotional symptoms (M=1.51), conduct problems (M=1.47), hyperactivity (M=1.44), and peer problems (M=1.42) were also notable, indicating substantial psychological and behavioral distress. The results suggest that trauma affects children not only at the emotional level but also in their social and behavioral functioning. The study concludes that trauma-informed, child-centered, and community-based interventions are urgently needed to support the mental health and resilience of children in conflict-affected settings.

Keywords
Trauma, child mental health, behavioral manifestations, PTSD, conflict-affected children, Bafanji, Cameroon.

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