Incest Trauma refers to the profound psychological and emotional damage resulting from sexual abuse by a family member or close relative. This form of abuse violates fundamental safety and trust, often leading to complex, long-lasting trauma responses.
Key Points:
- Nature of Betrayal: The abuser is someone typically expected to provide safety and care, compounding guilt, shame, and confusion.
- Potential Long-Term Effects: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), dissociation, relationship difficulties, impaired self-esteem, self-harm, and substance misuse.
- Complex Trauma: Incest often occurs repeatedly over time, contributing to a complex pattern of survival strategies and psychological defenses.
- Interventions: Trauma-informed therapy (e.g., EMDR, trauma-focused CBT), group support for survivors, and sometimes family therapy (when appropriate and safe).
