Situational Awareness for Neurodivergent & Trauma Impacted System-Involved Youth

Shoshana Phoenixx

Training Description

In this training, we will discuss the role of situational awareness as it affects neurodiverse and trauma-impacted system-involved youth. Situational awareness is being aware of one’s surroundings and any potential threats that may exist. A person who has experienced trauma and/or is neurodiverse may have altered emotional self-awareness that can turn to either hypervigilance of threat or a lack of awareness of hazards in their environment and how to respond successfully. A person who practices situational awareness successfully (as in fire alarm drills or active shooter drills) can recognize the possibility of being attacked, harmed or put in a dangerous situation and can follow instructions to be prepared to protect themselves. For neurodiverse youth, practicing the skills of situational awareness can allow them to work on their hyper and hypo observation and assessing skills so that they can become better strategic thinkers and navigate social situations.