Spotlight on Wellbeing
Unbroken Chains: The Ripple Effects of Generational Trauma
- Atilla Tiriyaki
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The documentary and subsequent survey found that typically, a higher number of those interviewed were pessimistic compared to other regions and cities where similar surveys were carried out. Some of the potential reasons for the negative attitudes were, in part, due to a lack of opportunities, as well as a kind of societal subconsciousness.
The Transylvania region has a long and bloody past, with its dark history being heavily featured in literature and film, associated with the fictional stories of Count Dracula; however, the real-life accounts are equally chilling, with the stories about the Count inspired by Vlad the Impaler, a 15th century ruler who was known for his violent and cruel methods of punishment, which included impalement.
During Vlad’s rule and the centuries that followed, life was hard for people in the region. For example, the area was subject to frequent warfare in the 17th and 18th centuries, which saw significant population losses. Could all these events and trauma have been passed down through the generations?
It has long been understood that many of our values and beliefs originate from our environments, including our friends and families, as well as those we encounter throughout society, such as through the media and online platforms. Influences, values and beliefs that we adopt, adapt or disregard based on our life experiences and understanding. So, if values and beliefs can be taught and learnt, the same could also be said of trauma.
Though trauma can be transferred down through the generations, engaging and talking about trauma can help us view it differently and be open about sharing our experiences freely. If a trauma manifests, it can become part of a person’s identity or the skewed lens and way they view a situation or circumstance.
Take, for example, a man who was physically assaulted in his youth by an older man. If the trauma is not addressed, and say the man was dealing with his feelings and same-sex attraction towards other men, the unresolved trauma might result in him beginning to self-hate or turn his fear and frustration into hate and anger.
In that example, the man would need to confront what happened to him, accept that it was not his fault and that the person who committed the crime should face consequences for their actions. Understanding that the sexuality of the abuser is only part of why he did what he did and that a person’s sexuality does not define who they are, but is part of the tapestry of what makes us who we are and act the way that we do. Meaning that a person’s sexuality alone does not determine how they will act or behave, but other things come into play, such as their mental health, self-worth, morality around what is right and wrong and so on.
Society as a whole plays a vital role with regard to trauma. By discussing and providing alternative views and perspectives, a light can be directly shone on the trauma, ensuring that the person knows they are not alone and ultimately enabling them to heal.
When society, our friends, and family fail to discuss difficult topics or hold antiquated beliefs, it can have a profound impact on how we perceive ourselves and how we react and respond to situations.
Though you might live in a country that constantly tells you that you are wrong and should not exist, or a family that would rather lose contact with you than accept you for who you are, deep down, no matter how small, you should know that they are wrong.
Only you can shape and define how you will live your life. Even when it feels like the whole world is against you, remember that there are people out there, happy and living ordinary lives, people like you, from whom you can draw hope.
Trauma will only ever have a hold on us when we do not confront and address it. We all deserve the right to exist, to be happy, and not to live in fear.
