New research by geneticists has found that exposure to traumatic events may actually alter the way a person’s genes behave, even after those genes have been passed on to his or her child. The research is just one avenue of exploration into how PTSD impacts not only the individual, but those close to the person. Previous studies have already shown that children raised by a parent with PTSD or depression are more likely than their peers to exhibit signs of stress and anxiety. Regardless of the genetic research, it’s important to recognize the complex relationship between parent and child. For those who struggle with PTSD, or who have lived through any type of trauma, exploring these issues in psychotherapy is an important step in creating a psychologically safe environment for the whole family, and also for themselves.
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