Betrayal trauma

Betrayal trauma is a concept within psychology that deals with the trauma experienced by an individual when someone on whom they are significantly dependent, such as a parent, partner, or caretaker, betrays their trust. This betrayal can manifest in various forms, including physical, emotional, or sexual abuse. The theory of betrayal trauma was developed by psychologist Jennifer J. Freyd in the mid-1990s, highlighting the impact of betrayal on memory, perception, and the psychological well-being of victims.

Overview

Betrayal trauma occurs when the people or institutions on which a person depends for survival significantly violate that person's trust or well-being: Physical, emotional, and/or sexual abuses are instances of betrayal trauma. Freyd's betrayal trauma theory posits that the psychological mechanisms involved in processing experiences of betrayal have a significant impact on the way those experiences are remembered and coped with. The theory suggests that there is a cognitive dissociation that occurs when a trusted individual inflicts harm, leading to a complex trauma response.

Symptoms and Effects

Victims of betrayal trauma may exhibit a range of psychological symptoms, including anxiety, depression, dissociation, and difficulties with trust and intimacy in relationships. The trauma can lead to complex post-traumatic stress disorder (C-PTSD) if left unaddressed. The betrayal from someone intimately connected to the victim complicates the healing process, as the victim may struggle with feelings of attachment and loyalty towards the perpetrator.

Treatment

Treatment for betrayal trauma typically involves trauma-informed therapy, which may include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), and other approaches that address the complex emotions and memories associated with the trauma. Establishing safety, processing the betrayal, and rebuilding trust are central goals of therapy.

See Also

• Psychological trauma
• Complex post-traumatic stress disorder
• Dissociation (psychology)
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy
• Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing