How do shared traumas influence relational prioritization and decision-making?
The impact of trauma can be far-reaching and difficult to overcome. Trauma is an emotional response to a deeply distressing experience that has lasting effects on an individual's psychological wellbeing. It can manifest itself in various ways, including physical symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety attacks, and intrusive thoughts. Shared trauma occurs when two or more individuals experience a similar traumatic event together, often leading to interpersonal difficulties. Researchers have found that shared traumas significantly affect individuals' relational priorities and decision-making processes. This article will explore how shared traumas influence relational prioritization and decision-making through three main theories: attachment theory, social identity theory, and narrative therapy.
Attachment Theory and Relational Priorities
Attachment theory provides valuable insights into how shared trauma affects relationships. According to this theory, early childhood experiences shape an individual's attachment style, which influences their future relationships. When two people share a traumatic experience, they may develop a secure or insecure attachment with each other based on their past attachments. Secure attachments involve trust, reliability, and safety, while insecure ones lead to fear, mistrust, and instability.
Suppose one person experienced a severe accident before meeting their partner; they may feel anxious and distant from them due to the trauma. On the other hand, if both partners had a positive childhood attachment experience, they are likely to form a secure bond despite the trauma.
Social Identity Theory and Decision Making
Another theory is social identity theory, which suggests that people make decisions based on their perception of themselves and others. In a relationship context, this means individuals tend to prioritize those who resemble them, such as family members or friends. When faced with a difficult decision, they are more likely to consider what will benefit their group rather than themselves alone. Shared trauma can complicate these dynamics because it forces individuals to reconsider their identities and loyalties.
When two partners have different backgrounds, they may struggle to understand each other's perspectives regarding a traumatic event and its consequences. This can result in communication breakdowns and conflicting interests.
Narrative Therapy and Relational Trauma
Narrative therapy emphasizes the power of stories in shaping our lives. It posits that individuals construct meaningful narratives about themselves and their world through language and actions. When two people share a traumatic experience, it becomes part of their collective story, shaping how they view each other and the world around them. Narrative therapists suggest that individuals create alternative narratives to change negative patterns caused by shared traumas. By acknowledging the effects of trauma and developing new ways of relating to one another, couples can work towards healing and growth.
Shared traumas influence relational priorities and decision-making processes in complex ways. Attachment theory highlights the importance of early childhood experiences in forming secure bonds, while social identity theory underscores the role of identity in decision making.
Narrative therapy encourages individuals to construct new narratives to overcome shared traumas. To overcome these challenges, couples should seek professional support from trained counselors who can guide them through this difficult process.
How do shared traumas influence relational prioritization and decision-making?
"Shared traumatic experiences can impact how individuals prioritize relationships and make decisions. Trauma can create a sense of helplessness and vulnerability, leading people to seek out strong connections with others who they feel are similar to them. This can lead to prioritizing certain relationships over others based on feelings of safety and security.