Abrams, M. S. (1999). Intergenerational transmission of trauma: Recent contributions from the literature of family systems approaches to treatment. American Journal of Psychotherapy, 53(2), 225-231.

Abstract

The long-range generational effects of trauma have been widely reported in the literature, especially regarding the Holocaust. However, it is clear that intergenerational trauma is not confined to war experiences, but is quite widespread. This article reviews recent contributions from the literature of family systems approaches to treatment. A central clinical feature is the silence that occurs in families surrounding traumatic experiences. The process of psychotherapy sometimes replicates that means of coping by not encouraging open discussion. Interventions that facilitate opening of a dialogue about secret trauma are often crucial to the treatment of current symptoms, as well as to the prevention of future problems. Reaching back to older generations and building open communication with younger generations can provide much understanding and relief to families. Consideration of repressed or denied trauma in individual or family therapy can assist both in halting the transmission of trauma from one generation to another and improving overall individual and family functioning. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)