Histories of violence, child abuse, or neglect can also influence how people pass down intergenerational trauma. They may pass these symptoms on to their children through their behaviour or genes. Individuals who have experienced these types of traumatic events may be more likely to develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, or depression. One way intergenerational trauma can occur is through direct exposure to traumatic events like war, genocide, or natural disasters. People from marginalised groups, or lower socioeconomic backgrounds, may be affected more than others due to prejudice. This can occur in many ways, including transmitting cultural practices, beliefs, and values or brain structure and function changes passed down through genetics.Īnyone can experience intergenerational trauma. Intergenerational trauma is a phenomenon where the effects of trauma are passed down from generation to generation.

It can also impact how individuals and communities perceive themselves and their place in the world, affecting their sense of identity, culture, and belonging. It can occur through various mechanisms, including socialisation, cultural norms and practices, and even biological factors. Intergenerational trauma refers to the transmission of trauma from one generation to the next. Typically, people think of trauma as something that happens to a single person however, trauma can also be transmitted across generations, perpetuating cycles of pain and suffering that can last for decades. Trauma is a complex phenomenon that can have far-reaching effects on individuals, families, and entire communities.

Effects of intergenerational trauma