Unpacking the Enduring Impact of Intergenerational Trauma
“The great journey of transformation begins with the acknowledgment that we need to make it. It is not something we are undertaking for amusement, nor even for the sake of convention; rather, it is a spiritual necessity.” – Alan Lew
Increased awareness and recognition of the prevalence and impact of trauma have made it a buzzword in recent years. The term refers to experiences that cause psychological distress or harm, such as physical or sexual abuse, emotional neglect, or witnessing violence. Research has shown that trauma can lead to anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), substance abuse, and other adverse outcomes. Consequently, more individuals are seeking treatment for trauma-related issues, and mental health professionals are improving their ability to identify and treat trauma.
Intergenerational trauma, also known as transgenerational trauma or historical trauma, is the transmission of trauma effects from one generation to the next. This transmission can occur through parenting practices, cultural traditions, or social structures that perpetuate the effects of trauma. Trauma can result from a variety of events, including war, genocide, slavery, forced migration, and other forms of oppression. Its impact can extend beyond those who directly experienced the event, affecting their children and grandchildren.
Over the years, I’ve returned to this essay multiple times, revising and refining it because it’s and will remain a work in progress as I continue to grapple with the complex legacy of intergenerational trauma.