Intergenerational transmission of childhood interpersonal trauma in adults entering therapy for intimate partner violence: The role of identity diffusion

Abstract

Background

Childhood Interpersonal Trauma (CIT) is a major public health issue that increases the risk of perpetrating and sustaining intimate partner violence (IPV) in adulthood, perpetuating intergenerational cycles of violence. Yet, the explanatory mechanisms behind the intergenerational transmission of trauma warrant further exploration.

Objective

This study explored identity diffusion as an explanatory mechanism linking cumulative and individual CIT (sexual, physical and psychological abuse, physical and psychological neglect, witnessing parental physical or psychological IPV, bullying) to IPV (sexual, physical, psychological, coercive control) and to the next generation's exposure to family violence. Gender differences (men, women, gender diversity) in these links were examined.

Participants and setting

A sample of 846 adults (60.4 % men, 36.4 % women, 3.2 % gender diverse) entering therapy across 21 community IPV specialized organizations were recruited.

Methods

Participants completed brief validated questionnaires assessing CIT, identity diffusion, IPV perpetration and victimization, and new generation's exposure to family violence.

Results

Four path analysis models showed that cumulative CIT, psychological neglect, and bullying were indirectly associated with adult IPV perpetration and victimization, and new generation family violence exposure through higher identity diffusion (βs ranging 0.037–0.091). Cumulative CIT was not related to IPV perpetration for gender diverse individuals, nor was identity diffusion related to IPV victimization for this group.

Conclusions

This study highlights the relevance of trauma-sensitive and identity-focused interventions that consider familial history and gender identity to effectively address the intergenerational transmission of trauma.