ECOLOGICAL ETHICS: TRAUMA AND HEALING IN CONTEMPORARY VIETNAMESE CHILDREN’S LITERATURE

DOI: 10.18173/2354-1067.2026-0010

Abstract

Children are among the most vulnerable groups in society and often suffer harm from multiple directions in an unstable world. With their innocence and emotional sensitivity, they frequently turn to animals and plants as companions for healing their wounds. By listening to and interacting with the natural world, children also contribute to the creation of a humane ecological environment which forms an important foundation for human life. Drawing on trauma theory and ecocriticism, this article examines the intricate relationship between trauma, ecology, and language, in which fragile children often fall into a state of “ speechlessness.” At the same time, we examine the phenomenon of “double trauma,” whereby emotional loss intersects with ecological collapse, leaving children isolated and disconnected. From this perspective, the article highlights the importance of cultivating ecological ethics as a means of healing, thereby enabling humanity to live in greater peace and fulfillment.