ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the acute and potentially chronic trauma that occurs as a result of a variety of experiences, ranging from catastrophes like hurricanes and wildfires, to the impact of poverty and community-based violence, to collective trauma experienced through significant world events like 9/11 and acts of terrorism. Natural disasters and other events beyond a person's control can also result in toxic stress that adversely impact a persons mental and physical functioning. The devastating Camp Fire in Paradise, CA, demonstrates the cascading impact of a natural disaster and the potential for chronic trauma. Community violence refers to exposure to intentional acts of interpersonal violence committed in public areas by nonrelatives. Bullying, public shootings, and acts of terrorism are all examples of community violence. Children are impacted by community violence when they witness the violent acts and when they are a victim to the events.
