Effects on cognition and learning. Over time violent experiences cause children's emotion-based brain reactions to overwhelm cog-
nitive processes. Mental functions involved in learning become
more difficult (LeDoux, 1996). At the same time, self-perceptions
tell the child that she is incapable of learning and unworthy of
teacher assistance, lowering motivation levels. “On average,
abused, maltreated, or neglected children score lower on cognitive
measures and demonstrate poorer school achievement compared
to their non-abused peers of similar socioeconomic backgrounds."
(Lowenthal, 1999, p. 206)
This list of children's reactions to violence is daunting indeed. Goot-
man (1993) agrees with Lowenthal (1999) that teachers must step for-
ward and be enlightened witnesses for children who have experienced
violence. Teachers who are enlightened witnesses affirm the goodness
within each child and that the child is not to blame for the violence expe-
rienced (Gootman, 1993). Such teachers work to build positive attach-
ments and make the classroom a trustworthy place where learning can
happen. Against the odds, by encouraging resiliency—personal strength
that promotes self-healing—they practice liberation teaching,
Can you please summarize and paraphrase this. It should only be 3-4 sentences