Negative experiences in childhood have been found to significantly predict self-harming behaviors in teenagers. These behaviors are believed to be ways for individuals to manage or cope with overwhelming emotions related to their past traumatic experiences.

Trichotillomania tends to develop in children at two main age points when it usually begins: around 7-8 years old and during puberty.

Trichstop also reports that there is a positive link between trichotillomania and early childhood trauma (although not everyone who has trich experienced trauma as a child):

A 2021 research study also found that a significant proportion of the participants with trichotillomania (TTM) had experienced childhood trauma.

The researchers in this study surveyed 130 adolescents (68 girls and 62 boys) using various psychological scales to assess childhood trauma and the presence of nail-biting and trichotillomania.

These scales included the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ) and the Massachusetts General Hospital Hairpulling Scale (MGH-HPS).

Specifically, the study revealed that 78% of adolescents with TTM reported some form of childhood trauma, including emotional, physical, or sexual abuse.

Findings like these indicate that using a trauma-informed approach in care is crucial. This approach acknowledges a person's history and the impact of their experiences, while aiming to avoid causing further trauma.

Although more research is needed in this area, understanding the role of trauma in chronic hair pulling can help create effective treatments that are sensitive to an individual’s trauma history and address their specific needs.

No, it does not mean that everyone with trichotillomania has experienced childhood trauma. While the study shows a strong association between childhood trauma and TTM, it does not imply causation for every individual.

Trichotillomania can have multiple contributing factors, including genetic predisposition, other psychological conditions, and environmental influences.

Childhood trauma is one significant factor, but not the sole cause.

Below are the key findings from this research study that are important to keep in mind:

Strong Association: The study highlights a strong link between childhood trauma and TTM, suggesting that those who have experienced trauma are more likely to develop trichotillomania.

Not Universal: Not all individuals with TTM have a history of childhood trauma. Some may develop the condition due to other factors.

Comprehensive Treatment: Treatment for TTM should consider individual histories, including potential childhood trauma, but also other psychological and environmental factors.

Here at HFHP, we address trauma in our self-help course called UnTrick Yourself – where we teach participants how to:

• better understand their triggers,
• observe their responses to emotional overwhelm, and
• adopt a self-care routine that incorporates multiple areas of ongoing healing, including therapy.

Trichstop is also one of many therapy approaches that we encourage our members to consider, with the recognition that online therapy does not work for everyone who has chronic hair pulling.

It is important, though, to discover what works best for you and your individual needs.

HFHP believes that true healing for trichotillomania requires a personalized care plan with a multi-disciplinary approach, and that’s why we help women create one in our self-care course.

References:
TrichStop. (n.d.). The childhood trauma and trichotillomania connection. Retrieved May 25, 2024, from https://www.trichstop.com/hair-pulling-trichotillomania-childhood-trauma-connection

Yasir, W., Sherin, M., & Kazmi, S. F. (2021). The role of childhood trauma in developing nail biting and trichotillomania among adolescents. International Journal of Innovation, Creativity and Change, 15(2), 1314-1332.https://www.ijicc.net/images/Vol_15/Iss_2/17132_Kazmi_2021_E1_R1.pdf