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Hidden Burdens: a Review of Intergenerational, Historical and Complex Trauma, Implications for Indigenous Families

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Abstract

Drawing on decades of work as allies with Indigenous families and communities in Canada, the authors present a review of literature on intergenerational, historical trauma and the effects of early trauma. Included in the review are critical considerations as to whether understanding of stressed human capacity, as described by family members of various generations affected by traumatic events, may be increased through exploring the developmental implications of complex trauma. Research on brain-based effects of early trauma and work from the field of epigenetics may contribute other components to the understanding of complex, intergenerational impacts of multiple trauma contexts. Informed support for individuals and families combined with political advocacy at a systems level is critical in intergenerational trauma work in order to break historic patterns affecting family development and interactions.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. School of Education, Counselling Program, School of Education, University of Northern British Columbia, 3333 University Way, Prince George, BC, V2N 4Z9, Canada

    Linda O’Neill

  2. School of Education, Aboriginal Education, University of Northern British Columbia, Prince George, BC, Canada

    Tina Fraser

  3. School of Education, Special Education, University of Northern British Columbia, Prince George, BC, Canada

    Andrew Kitchenham

  4. School of Education, Teacher Education, University of Northern British Columbia, Prince George, BC, Canada

    Verna McDonald

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  1. Linda O’Neill
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  2. Tina Fraser
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Correspondence to Linda O’Neill.

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O’Neill, L., Fraser, T., Kitchenham, A. et al. Hidden Burdens: a Review of Intergenerational, Historical and Complex Trauma, Implications for Indigenous Families. Journ Child Adol Trauma 11, 173–186 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40653-016-0117-9

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