A child who suffers from PTSD has made unsuccessful attempts to get help, and as the victimization continues, he stops asking for it. He withdraws socially, because he's never quite sure when interaction is going to lead to another incident of bullying…. Different people have different responses to stress. In Peter's case, I saw an extreme emotional vulnerability, which, in fact, was the reason he was teased. Peter didn't play by the codes of boys. He wasn't a big athlete. He wasn't tough. He was sensitive. And difference is not always respected – particularly when you're a teenager. Adolescence is about fitting in, not standing out.
A child experiencing PTSD has faced repeated victimization and has found it pointless to seek help after unsuccessful attempts. As the bullying persists, he becomes increasingly withdrawn from social interactions, unsure of when he might encounter further abuse. This situation illustrates the profound impact of ongoing trauma on a child's willingness to engage with others.
Different individuals react to stress in various ways, and for Peter, emotional vulnerability made him a target for teasing. He did not conform to typical masculine norms, lacking athleticism and toughness. Instead, he exhibited sensitivity, which often leads to disrespect among peers during adolescence. This stage of life emphasizes conformity, making it particularly challenging for those who stand out.
