Abstract

A vast number of children and young people globally face the harsh realities of war genocide natural disasters and other such tragedies Yet thereis limited research and few published studies that look specifically at how spirituality can be utilized as a trauma-informed approach to promote resilience and wellbeing for young people Earlier research conducted with teachers and clinicians working with traumatized children at Hagar International Cambodia indicated a convergence of trauma-informed themes In particular a religious and spiritual approach to resilience was identified as one of the key factors for children in their recovery from trauma Wyatt et al 2017 2018 Hagar is a faith-based human rights organization providing advocacy services for women and children who have survived the most extreme cases of human rights abuse Hagar International 2015 This research continues with young people who have been supported by Hagar exploring the protective factors that promote wellbeing and resilience It is expected that for these young survivors of trafficking gender-based violence and abuse that religion and spirituality may offer a framework for life that bring meaning to individuals in the face of adversity This article brings together current research and practice in an exploration of spirituality and resilience for trauma survivors in Cambodia