Against All Odds

Complex trauma is defined as trauma that occurs during childhood and teenage years and seriously interferes with the developmental stages of an individual. Complex trauma is usually the result of poly victimization (multiple forms of abuse like physical, sexual, and emotional), inflicted by so-called “care takers.” Survivors of complex trauma often experience a deep sense of betrayal, a loss of trust in humanity, and a sense of hopelessness and despair. Additionally, they struggle with managing their emotions and interpersonal relationships, and they tend to have an extremely poor self–concept. The defense mechanisms that were once useful to survivors of complex trauma during their childhood are both difficult to undo and often become serious hindrances in post-trauma life.