Ep 16: How Trauma Is Passed Down Through Generations

Join us as we have a conversation about the lasting impacts of Generational Trauma.

Definition of Generational Trauma:

• Generational trauma is explored as trauma extending from one generation to the next.
• The impacts of trauma can be passed down genetically and behaviorally, hindering appropriate social engagement and nurturing.

Brief Overview of Epigenetics:

• What is epigenetics?
• Epigenetic changes are adaptable rather than definitive.
• A reference study on rats regarding stress and cherry blossoms.

Types of Generational Trauma:

• Collective trauma is discussed, including racism, oppression, scarcity of resources, wars, combat PTSD, and displacement.
• Individual trauma examples are provided, such as abuse, assault, medical trauma, and severe injury.
• Family trauma is highlighted, encompassing attachment wounds and cycles of insecure attachment patterns.

Benefits of Understanding Generational Trauma:

• Understanding generational trauma helps make the subconscious conscious, gaining agency over one's nervous system and behaviors.
• Increased compassion for previous generations aids in forgiveness and releasing anger.
• Different lenses through which to understand trauma are explored: trauma lens, attachment lens, and anxiety lens.

Book Recommendations for Healing Generational Trauma:

• "It Didn’t Start with You" by Mark Wolynn
• "Good Inside" by Dr. Becky Kennedy