When it comes to relational reciprocity, fairness, and equity, people have different perceptions based on their own experiences.
When someone goes through a traumatic experience, they may start to see these concepts differently.
Traumatic Experience
Trauma can be defined as a deeply distressing or disturbing experience that causes long-lasting psychological effects. It is often associated with feelings of fear, helplessness, and a sense of being overwhelmed. Traumatic events can include natural disasters, violence, abuse, accidents, loss, and more. These experiences can leave an individual feeling powerless and vulnerable, which can lead them to question their beliefs about themselves and others.
Perception of Relationships
After experiencing trauma, individuals may become wary of relationships and struggle to trust others. They may feel like no one can truly understand what they are going through or offer unconditional support. As a result, they may withdraw from social interactions and avoid intimacy altogether. They may also develop a heightened sense of mistrust and suspicion towards others, leading them to believe that everyone has ulterior motives or is out to get them.
Fairness and Equity
Individuals who have experienced trauma may also have a skewed view of fairness and equity in relationships. They may see the world as unfair and believe that they are never given what they deserve. This can lead them to perceive relationships as power struggles where they must fight for everything they receive. They may also be more likely to take advantage of others or seek revenge when things don't go their way.
Impact on Relational Reciprocity
Individuals who have gone through traumatic experiences may struggle to reciprocate in relationships. They may find it difficult to give without expecting something in return or trust that their partners will provide for them equally. They may feel like they always need to be the ones giving and may resent their partner for not doing enough for them. This can create tension and distance in the relationship, making it harder to build a strong bond.
How does trauma reshape the perception of relational reciprocity, fairness, and equity?
Traumatic experiences can significantly alter an individual's perception of interpersonal relationships, particularly with regard to relational reciprocity, fairness, and equity. When individuals experience trauma, they may develop feelings of betrayal, mistrust, and a sense of unfair treatment by others, which can lead them to believe that all relationships are inherently unjust and untrustworthy.