Transgenerational Trauma

What is transgenerational trauma?

Transgenerational trauma refers to trauma symptoms that are experienced by the descendant of a trauma survivor who has not experienced the trauma themselves. Although we do not understand exactly how Transgenerational trauma works, ample evidence exists that trauma may change the structure of our genetic expression via epigenetics. The offspring of the trauma survivor inherits the trauma-impacted genes, and PTSD symptoms can become part of the child's experience of the world.

Barbed wire pulled taut in front of a chain-link fence. Credit: Marco Bianchetti, Unsplash

In addition to epigenetics, trauma can impact who we are, which in turn impacts who we become as parents. Behaviors learned during traumatic events become behaviors taught years later to children. This idea began to take hold in the late 1960s, after psychologists began to notice similar traits among the children of Holocaust survivors who had not experienced the Holocaust themselves. Native Americans, Black Americans, and other marginalized people have evidence of epigenetic and non-epigenetic transgenerational trauma impacting their communities.

How does transgenerational trauma affect us?

The implications of this are significant. Imagine generation after generation of Black children born in the United States with the genetic markers for PTSD symptoms like depression, anger, and shame before they've taken their first breath. Before they even experience systemic racism or injustice, it's already hard-wired into them. Generations of Jewish children growing up hypervigilant; looking into the shadows in fear of their oppressors. Children of immigrants feeling an intrinsic fear of their government without being able to understand why. The kids of people who immigrated to flee a war being traumatized by the thing their parents sought to protect them from.

Can anything good come out of this?

It isn't all doom and gloom. Parents also pass on resilience and grit. They can teach children to be safe without being vigilant. Communities can seek to understand transgenerational trauma, accept it, and see people through the lens of what their ancestors have endured. As a society, we can all have empathy for one another. Empathy is an infinite resource.

Can trauma therapy help with transgenerational trauma?

Yes! If you think that you may be experiencing transgenerational trauma or you want to develop your own resilience, trauma therapy can help. Mindfulness, cognitive reframing, EMDR, and ACT are all forms of evidence-based trauma treatments that can help mitigate trauma symptoms and help improve mental health. If you or someone you know is experiencing PTSD symptoms, reach out to a qualified mental health practitioner today. If you're in Colorado you can schedule a free 15-minute consultation with True Grit Performance Counseling.