Citation

McCormack L, Sly R. Traumatology 2013; 19(4): 303-312.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2013, Green Cross Academy of Traumatology, Publisher APA Journals)

DOI

10.1177/1534765613481855

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

There is a paucity of research into the positive and negative intergenerational psychological effects of war-related trauma, particularly from a child's perspective. Therefore, this study aimed to shed light on both positive and negative experiences of growing up in a family where one parent is traumatized by war. It explored the subjective "lived" experience of three sisters whose father, a Vietnam War veteran, was diagnosed with combat-related posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) data from semistructured interviews were analyzed. One overarching theme emerged: making meaning of dual complex trauma. This encapsulated four superordinate themes: betrayal and neglect; like father, like daughter; fragile intimate self; and growthful forgiveness and self-care. Implications for therapeutic intervention with intergenerational trauma are discussed.

Language: en