The Center for the Developing Child at Harvard University states that “nature vs. One primary field of study that follows this concept is epigenetics, which examines environmental influences that affect gene expression. A 2018 collective analysis of generational trauma studies indicated “there is now converging evidence supporting the idea that offspring are affected by parental trauma exposures occurring before their birth, and possibly even prior to their conception.” Now, it includes American Indian tribes, families of Vietnam War veterans, and other large groups of mass atrocities.Īdditionally, Duke University points to studies that reveal in-depth understanding of “generational challenges within families”-not only those who suffered in terrorist attacks and war, but also various forms of trauma, such as abuse, adverse childhood experiences, murder, rape, and other tragedies. The APA also notes initial research focused on descendants of survivors from the Dutch Winter Hunger Famine, the Holocaust, and Japanese American internment camps. What Is Generational Trauma?Īlso referred to as intergenerational trauma, the American Psychological Association (APA) defines it as “a phenomenon in which the descendants of a person who has experienced a terrifying event show adverse emotional and behavioral reactions to the event that are similar to those of the person himself or herself.” You might also hear it called secondary trauma, historical trauma, and multigenerational trauma.
![intergenerational trauma alcoholism intergenerational trauma alcoholism](https://alcorehab.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Prevalence-of-alcohol-related-disorders-among-the-active-duty-component.png)
![intergenerational trauma alcoholism intergenerational trauma alcoholism](https://i0.wp.com/mentalhealthathome.org/wp-content/uploads/intergenerational-trauma.jpeg)
More current research reveals how trauma impacts multiple lives in many ways, especially regarding substance abuse.
![intergenerational trauma alcoholism intergenerational trauma alcoholism](https://www.marylandrecovery.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Understanding-the-Trauma-and-Alcohol-Connection.jpg)
The scientific community has studied generational trauma for decades, but as you might guess, it takes at least two life cycles within a family to truly understand its effects.