Someone on the Relationships and Coping Community recently explained that she grew up in a family where the daughters were abused; and she was struggling with family dynamics that center on issues related to that abuse. Unfortunately, such struggles are common. So, in response to her, and to all who can relate, I offer these thoughts.
Surviving childhood abuse (physical, sexual, or emotional) does not end with childhood. Along with having to cope with personal struggles for years to come, surviving also means dealing with ongoing family dynamics related to the abuse. Sometimes strong ties are forged between siblings who supported or tried to protect each other. However, all too often there continue to be problems, such as issues of secrecy and betrayal.
These kinds of family dynamics can leave people feeling traumatized all over again. Siblings might ostracize a man who expresses anger toward a father who beat him. A mother might deny her daughter’s stories of being sexually abused by her father or grandfather; or she might blame the daughter for the abuse. Responses such as these invalidate a person’s experiences and create new struggles in adulthood..
continue reading at the cite below...
http://blogs.webmd.com/art-of-relationships/2011/07/childhood-abuse-the-lasting-effects-on-families.html
Quotes:
1. “I feel sad about all that has happened. I feel sad and disappointed that my siblings are still stuck in my destructive family dynamics; and that we don’t have a close relationship.”
2. "Surviving childhood abuse (physical, sexual, or emotional) does not end with childhood. Along with having to cope with personal struggles for years to come, surviving also means dealing with ongoing family dynamics related to the abuse. All too often there continue to be problems, such as issues of secrecy and betrayal." -Lesllie Becker
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