Harkness, L. L. (1993). Transgenerational transmission of war-related trauma. In International handbook of traumatic stress syndromes (pp. 635-643). Springer, Boston, MA.

Abstract

Traumatic events affect individuals, families, and society in many different direct and indirect ways. In this chapter, I examine specific aspects of the intergenerational transmission of combat-related trauma by assessing the impact of a father’s combat-related posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) on family life. What, if any, are the transgenerational effects of having a parent whose combat experiences have led to PTSD? In the United States, it is estimated that 30 million people (Lipsky et al., 1976), 13% of the total population has served in the Armed Forces and 50% percent have a first degree relative who is a veteran. Many of these veterans are combat soldiers who served in World War II, Korea, or the Vietnam War and may have combat-related PTSD. Investigation and understanding of intergenerational transmission are essential to comprehend the long-term outcome for the combat veteran with PTSD and his or her family.