Psychological injury resulting from repeated, prolonged exposure to traumatic events, typically occurring in contexts where escape is difficult or impossible. It often involves interpersonal trauma and affects core aspects of identity and relationships.
Developed in the 1990s by trauma researcher Judith Herman, combining 'complex' from Latin 'complexus' meaning woven together, with 'trauma' from Greek meaning wound. The term emerged to distinguish prolonged, repeated trauma from single-incident trauma.
Complex trauma literally rewires the developing brain, affecting everything from emotional regulation to the ability to trust others. Unlike single-event trauma, it often occurs during critical developmental periods, making it particularly challenging to treat but also offering unique opportunities for healing through relationships.
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