Kids Are More Likely To Inherit Generational Trauma From This Parent, According To Research
Ryan Collins | Unsplash Those who have experienced childhood trauma know all too well that the impact is long-lasting. It doesn't just disappear when you grow up, move away from home, and start a life and family of your own.
A study found that the effects of childhood trauma are even more enduring than you might expect — at least for men. The research showed that generational trauma may be passed down from fathers to children through their sperm cells.
A study found that kids are more likely to inherit generational trauma from their fathers
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The study, published in the Journal of Molecular Psychiatry earlier this year, focused on epigenetics — the study of how your environment and life experiences affect how your genes work.
"Epigenetics is basically saying which genes are active," the study's lead author Dr. Jetro Tuulari told Live Science. The researchers discovered something interesting — that emotional turmoil may be embedded at a molecular level in sperm cells.
To reach this conclusion, they analyzed sperm cells from 58 individuals in their late 30s and early 40s. They used the Trauma and Distress Scale (TADS), "an established questionnaire that queries people about their memories of emotional or physical neglect, as well as emotional or physical abuse."
They discovered that the sperm of men who reported having experienced childhood trauma differed from that of men who had less trauma
“Our findings support that earlier stress exposures, even from as far as childhood, can leave epigenetic imprints in sperm cells,” the study reads.
"This pattern held even after the researchers checked if the differences could be attributed to other factors, such as drinking or smoking behaviors," Live Science contributor Marianne Guenot noted.
Still, while these findings are certainly intriguing, more research is necessary. Epigenetic changes were found in the sperm of fathers with high childhood trauma; however, it is unclear if it is actually passed down to their children. Tuulari emphasized that this aspect of the research remains speculative, as studies in animals have shown epigenetic inheritance, but evidence in humans is not yet conclusive.
Childhood trauma has lasting generational effects
While it is not definitively proven that trauma is passed down to future generations through their genes, the effects of trauma are undoubtedly long-lasting. From PTSD and dissociation to anxiety and depression, childhood trauma has a way of sticking with you throughout your life.
Trauma also affects how you parent. Regardless of your gender or the epigenetics of your sperm cells, those who experienced trauma during their youth parent differently.
Psychology Today suggested that parents with childhood trauma may have difficulties regulating their emotions, being an authority figure, and forming healthy bonds with their children. They may also be overprotective, possess a victim mentality, or fear repeating the cycle of trauma.
Thankfully, it is possible to heal from trauma, and having a traumatic upbringing does not mean that your children will too.
Erika Ryan is a writer working on her bachelor's degree in Journalism. She is based in Florida and covers relationships, psychology, self-help, and human interest topics.
