What Is Intergenerational Trauma And Why Must We Address It?
Intergenerational trauma refers to the transmission of the effects of trauma from one generation to the next. Trauma can have a lasting impact on an individual's mental and physical wellbeing, and sadly this impact can be unconsciously passed down to future generations.
Some common ways the effects of intergenerational trauma are passed down are through inadequate or unhealthy family / parenting behaviors, through inappropriate or damaging roles children are recruited to play, and via the conditions set by larger systems surrounding individuals and families. For instance, economic, educational and systems of government can all enact and reenact intergenerational trauma as they impose policies that can be racist, classist, sexist, and can generally strip people of the chance of having a free and fair experience of life.
Addressing intergenerational trauma is important for several reasons:
First, it can help individuals and families heal from the effects of trauma and improve their overall well-being. This can lead to better physical and mental health, improved relationships, and increased resilience in the face of future challenges. Trauma creates separation. Healing fosters reconnection.
Second, addressing intergenerational trauma means working to break the cycle of trauma transmission and prevent future generations from experiencing the same consequences. Addressing the cycle and the means of transmission also has a positive impact on families and communities, and can lead to greater overall health and well-being in these groups.
Finally, addressing intergenerational trauma promotes social and cultural healing. By addressing the root causes of trauma and working to heal the wounds of the past, we can help to create a more just and equitable society for all.
What remains unaddressed and unconscious, repeats. This is true for the individual, for the family, and for the larger systems that we operate within.
Intergenerational trauma work is about doing what it takes to ensure history does not repeat itself at each level of our experience.
