INTRO
In this webinar, “How Generational Trauma Can Impact Abortion,” Kara West, a master’s level social worker and licensed independent clinical social worker, explores the transmission of trauma across generations and its implications for families affected by abortion. Kara brings a wealth of experience from her nine years as a therapist specializing in children and families. As the Family Connections Coordinator with the Abortion Survivors Network, she is passionate about helping both biological and adoptive families support abortion survivors and honored to guide young survivors as they process their stories.
“Trauma decontextualized in a person can look like personality. Trauma decontextualized in a family can look like family traits, and trauma decontextualized in a people can look like culture,” wrote Resmaa Menakem. This powerful insight sets the stage for understanding the far-reaching impacts of generational trauma, particularly in the context of abortion.
WHAT IS GENERATIONAL TRAUMA?
“Generational trauma, as defined by the American Psychological Association, is the transmission of trauma or its legacy in the form of psychological consequence of an injury or attack, poverty, and so forth, from the generation experiencing the trauma to subsequent generations.” Kara began her presentation with this compelling definition, emphasizing its relevance to the discussion on how generational trauma influences those who experience abortion.
She emphasized the growing recognition of generational trauma’s impact, noting that research now shows its effects on families affected by various forms of historical and systemic trauma, such as slavery, war, systemic oppression of Black people, and the historical trauma experienced by American Indian communities.
Kara took a moment to discuss the concept of trauma, noting that it’s a frequently mentioned and significant topic in today’s society. She clarified that the trauma being addressed was “big trauma,” describing it as “an emotional reaction to a highly stressful, frightening, some would say life-threatening or distressful event that’s very difficult to cope with.”
She briefly explained adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), which include “a child experiencing violence or abuse or neglect, witnessing violence, a family member dying by suicide, family member or parent abusing substances or alcohol within the home, parent incarceration, severe mental health problems, parental instability, homelessness, extreme poverty, and repeated discrimination.” (CDC, 2024)
Kara highlighted a 2023 study by Swedo et al mentioned in the CDC report that showed that children who experienced more adverse childhood experiences early on often faced poor outcomes as adults. She stated that, “Toxic stress is really what we’re looking at when we’re talking about how trauma is passed down to next generations.”
She distinguished between a single traumatic event and repeated trauma, explaining that prolonged stress, such as a child who lives in a home with domestic, sexual, or physical abuse, can have profound effects. She noted that extended or prolonged stress could alter immune systems, brain development, and stress response systems, with these effects potentially being passed down to the next generation.
HOW IS TRAUMA PASSED DOWN?
Kara explained how trauma could be passed down, noting that it sometimes occurs through DNA. She admitted she initially believed that trauma could change someone’s DNA sequence, and said this is a common misconception. However, she explained that it is actually, “an epigenetic change in how the genes are read by the cells.” (Amare, 2022) She described how a genetic adaptation could be passed down through a chemical marker for a gene, making a person more susceptible to specific behavioral patterns or trauma reactions.
She highlighted an interesting fact about female biology: “All of the eggs that a woman carries form in her uterus while she’s still a fetus in her mother’s womb.” This means that a part of every woman, her mother, and her grandmother all shared the same biological and emotional environment for a period of time.
Kara shared the true story of Ying Liu, a girl born in China during the one-child policy era, enacted to address overpopulation. (Liu, 2023) A year after Ying’s birth, her mother became pregnant with a boy, but had an abortion five months into the pregnancy. Although Ying knew about her unborn brother, her family never discussed it, leaving her without a chance to grieve. Ying stated that it wasn’t until she attended graduate school for counseling and psychotherapy training that “I became aware that something was hidden all along, and it was seeking expression. It was something that had just kind of gotten swept under the rug, passed on, and a little bit forgotten.”
Realizing she needed counseling to address her own grief and loss, Ying entered group therapy. During this time, she experienced significant somatic terror. While she didn’t describe specific symptoms like migraines or body pain, she connected her experiences to her parents’ survival during China’s Cultural Revolution.
Through questioning her parents, Ying discovered her family had suffered significant losses, including executions and suicides. In addition to the loss of her brother to abortion, Ying traced this trauma back three generations, making her the fourth generation to experience loss from violence. She learned that her body stored all of this felt trauma.
TRAUMA REACTIONS
Kara recommended the book The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk, acknowledging that it is “a heavy and difficult read, especially if trauma is something that you’ve experienced in your life,” but emphasizing its power and usefulness in understanding how the body stores trauma. She explained that trauma reactions can vary significantly among individuals, even if they experience the same traumatic event. These differences can also manifest across generations, influenced by factors such as an individual’s temperament, personality, and genetic predisposition.
She discussed various trauma reactions, highlighting those commonly observed in individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, and PTSD. She listed some common reactions, including shame, substance abuse, guilt, heightened sense of helplessness, increased anxiety, hypervigilance, low self-esteem, difficulty in attachment and relationships, depression, difficulty with emotional regulation, suicidality, and extreme reactivity to stress.
Kara explained that many behavioral patterns passed down to the next generation are rooted in trauma. “I’m sure you’ve heard the saying ‘trauma begets trauma.’ It’s true,” she said. (Gelkopf, 2018) She described how this could manifest as a “fear or distrust of others,” including police officers, mental health providers, and/or men, which can lead to individuals not seeking help when needed.
She provided several examples of trauma reactions, noting that they could manifest as avoidance behaviors, staying in unhealthy relationships, and unhealthy eating patterns. As an example, she said, “A parent who experienced neglect as a child may develop an eating disorder and pass down disordered eating habits and beliefs surrounding food.”
Additionally, Kara mentioned that unhealthy coping skills, such as alcohol or substance abuse, using sex as a coping mechanism, denial, self-harm, and interpersonal violence, could be passed down. “We know that the coping skills that are modeled are more likely to be repeated, especially by kids,” Kara stated.
Kara explained that trauma reactions could also lead to the next generation parenting or raising their children very differently than they were raised. She noted that “sometimes that pendulum can be swung too far in the opposite direction.”
GENERATIONAL TRAUMA AND ABORTION
Kara transitioned to discussing how generational trauma can impact women who experience abortion. While acknowledging that there are many reasons women experiencing unintended pregnancies may consider abortion, Kara focused specifically on how generational trauma may influence such decisions.
She explained that women with unintended pregnancies might be more likely to consider abortion if there is a cultural level of distrust of others, noting that they might not want to ask for help or feel like they can. Using Ying’s family as an example, she noted that trauma is often silenced in families. Kara stated, “This happens all the time. We just don’t talk about secrets and we repress feelings, right? We sometimes kind of shove things down deep inside and hope that they just go away.”
Another factor Kara mentioned was generational poverty. She highlighted that a woman might be living in poverty not only in the present, but also as part of a legacy of poverty spanning generations. She referenced a 2005 study conducted in the U.S. on the top reasons women sought abortions, noting that although it wasn’t specifically about generational trauma, the study found that 60% of the participants were living below the federal poverty line. (Finer et al, 2005)
Kara stated that the prevalence of racism, discrimination, or marginalization in family histories might make women more likely to terminate their pregnancies. Referencing the same study, she highlighted that 31% of the study’s participants were Black and 19% were Hispanic. (Finer et al, 2005)
She explained that another reason for seeking an abortion is if previous generations have also experienced abortion, “and are seen as a common occurrence in the family,” which reflects a unique aspect of generational trauma.
Kara discussed additional factors influencing abortion decisions among those impacted by generational trauma. She explained that a lack of family support systems, a history of broken families, abuse or absent fathers could contribute to a woman seeking an abortion. In the same study, 48% of women reported not wanting to be a single mother or relationship problems. (Finer et al, 2005)
She also highlighted the interpersonal violence woven into family history could play a role. She mentioned that “our own national rape-related pregnancy rate is 5%,” and cited a 1996 study confirmed by the CDC, which found that “50% of those women went on to have an abortion.” (Holmes et al, 1996)
Kara identified two other factors: a family history of substance and alcohol abuse and a family history of untreated mental illness, as additional influences on the decision to seek an abortion.
She pointed out that some abortion survivors also experience abortion themselves. She stated that each individual responds to trauma differently and that some survivors’ families can experience a cycle of abortion which may include issues involving abuse, neglect, manipulation, depression, untreated mental health illness, and much more.
Kara further emphasized that trauma and generational trauma can impact individuals differently, influenced by factors such as genetics, their culture, personality and temperament, their current situation, and their support system.
PRISCILLA’S STORY OF GENERATIONAL TRAUMA
Kara introduced Priscilla, an abortion survivor, highlighting her powerful story of how generational trauma played out in her life, including the generational trauma of abortion being passed down through her family.
Priscilla acknowledged the heaviness of the topic and shared her personal experience with generational trauma. She explained that her mother, widowed with four children, was heartbroken, desperate, and fearful when she became pregnant with twins. And she sought a termination in which Priscilla’s twin was aborted.
“Abortion trauma entered my life even before I was born,” Priscilla said, describing it as “an unseen process.” She added that her mother never dealt with the reality of the abortion or the grief from losing her husband, who was the love of her life.
Priscilla continued by recounting her own first abortion at 19. She said, “My parents arranged an abortion, no conversation, no discussion.” She emphasized that, back in the late 60’s, there were no resources or discussions about deeper issues surrounding abortion.
A few months later, her mother revealed that she had tried to have Priscilla aborted, which Priscilla felt explained why she never felt wanted or loved. “That was part of the consequence of that trauma. Trauma on top of trauma,” she said.
Priscilla described her second abortion at age 25, “This time I let my boyfriend decide.” She explained that many abortion survivors feel invisible, muted, and without a voice. “I didn’t really feel like I had a voice,” she said, noting that this silencing effect of trauma made her feel unimportant and invisible.
After her second abortion, Priscilla said, “If that wasn’t enough trauma in my life, I pivoted and took a job in an abortion clinic.”
Emphasizing that generational trauma can be broken, Priscilla recounted her own journey toward breaking the cycle. A near-death car accident left her discontent and searching for reality and truth, making her aware of her need for change.
This quest led her to rural Alaska, where she worked to finish her graduate program with a Native healthcare program. For the first time, she had Christian friends who she said provided support against her trauma, and she was surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of rural Alaska in the summer. However, she explained, her behavior hadn’t changed, and she became pregnant again.
Priscilla described wondering if she would experience another abortion, but ultimately deciding to keep her child. She said, “At that point, I was 30 years old. I had a master’s degree, so I knew I would be able to take care of him.” She also said, “At that point, it was like I discovered my voice. No one would tell me what to do with this pregnancy.”
Priscilla continued by sharing she married the father and together they had three children, although they later divorced. “But that cycle of generational trauma had broken with me,” she said, “and I’ve been on this road of healing.”
In 2019, she connected with the Abortion Survivors Network, where she found additional healing through their program. She shared that she had already gone through after-abortion healing during the 90s, and was able to forgive others and herself. Priscilla also connected with And Then There Were None, a ministry for people who worked in the abortion industry, and expressed gratitude for the resources available to her.
HOW DO WE STOP THE CYCLE OF GENERATIONAL TRAUMA?
After thanking Priscilla for sharing her story, Kara acknowledged Priscilla’s success in breaking the cycle of generational trauma and then shifted the focus to how others can also achieve this.
Kara explained that the first step is becoming aware of untreated trauma, which involves recognizing trauma that has been passed down through generations. She noted the importance of identifying the source of this trauma and acknowledged this can be difficult and requires courage. Kara emphasized the need for seeking help and utilizing support systems, saying, “It takes support – we’re not meant to go through this on our own,” noting this is a key reason attendees were there – because they serve and support their clients.
Kara suggested using genograms as a tool to identify generational trauma and behavioral patterns. She recommended using them either in a group setting or as a homework assignment for interested clients. Kara explained that a genogram could display major events, cultural factors, mental illness, medical conditions, traumas, addictions, and relationship dynamics on a single document, whether on paper or through online programs. This method helps in visualizing how these elements have been passed down through generations.
Kara displayed a basic genogram example on her screen, explaining that circles represent females and squares represent males, with lines indicating relationships. She used “Amy’s” genogram, which traced her family back three generations, including her grandparents, parents, and siblings. Amy’s genogram showed her family structure, including her marriage to “Bob” and their daughter.
She provided a link to a genogram handout which offers detailed symbols and tools for creating genograms. Kara described how genograms could illustrate various aspects, such as relationship statuses, emotional connections, trauma, substance abuse, and medical issues. She suggested that after completing a genogram, clients should reflect on their findings by considering their feelings, what stood out to them, how their family managed emotions or pain, and what hopeful insights they might gain.
Kara addressed how to use the information from genograms to help clients process their experiences. She emphasized the value of bringing hidden issues to light and suggested opening discussions with parents about their experiences and coping mechanisms. She encouraged clients to explore any patterns or narratives still present in their family dynamics.
She highlighted the importance of deciding what to change and what to maintain in one’s life. She acknowledged that this process could be challenging, especially for clients who are parents, as they work to prevent harmful patterns from affecting future generations. Kara also noted that even clients without immediate families could benefit from this process by understanding their own trauma and improving their relationships with others.
HOW TO PREVENT PASSING DOWN TRAUMA
Kara discussed ways to prevent passing down trauma by creating a new narrative for future generations. She emphasized the importance of communication, noting that how traumatic events and patterns are discussed – through language, tone, and attitudes – affects how these experiences are perceived by present and future generations.
Kara praised Priscilla for her example of empathetic communication, highlighting how Priscilla shared her mother’s and her own experiences with her children. This empathy helps address and transform trauma.
She also highlighted the significance of family functioning. She pointed out that the coping skills modeled within the home are likely to be passed down. Therefore, it is important to address mental healthcare, such as therapy or counseling, and to ensure that emotions are openly expressed in the family.
Kara noted the impact of current relationships and family dynamics, including forgiveness, reconciliation, and quality time spent together. She emphasized the powerful influence of both nature and nurture in shaping a warm and loving home environment that supports healthy development and healing.
HELPING CLIENTS WITH GENERATIONAL TRAUMA IN A GROUP SETTING
Kara offered several suggestions for discussing and processing generational trauma in a group setting. She began by stressing the importance of creating intentional space for discussion, allowing clients to share their family histories, and actively listening without rushing their process. She noted that trauma survivors often need to proceed at their own pace, taking breaks as necessary.
She also emphasized the value of connection over correction. Kara explained that while hearing shared experiences can be healing, it’s crucial to avoid trying to fix each other’s problems in the group setting. She expressed appreciation for a webinar from Support After Abortion that highlighted the importance of refraining from offering solutions to fellow group members.
Kara suggested supporting clients through various means, such as psychoeducation on trauma and its effects on the body, examples of healthy coping skills, and cognitive reframing. For clients who are parents, discussing healthy parenting skills and setting appropriate boundaries could be beneficial. She acknowledged that some clients might benefit from one-on-one therapy or counseling, especially those dealing with generational trauma.
Kara presented another handout featuring various trauma-informed therapies, each with its own national website. She mentioned that you can search for certified providers in your area using these websites.
THE POWER OF FORGIVENESS AND RESILIENCE
Kara shared her experiences with the power of forgiveness among abortion survivors, emphasizing the remarkable healing it brings. She noted that witnessing survivors work through forgiveness for their mothers who tried to abort them has been both humbling and inspiring. Kara pointed out that this process of forgiveness starts with empathy, such as Priscilla’s compassion for previous generations, stating, “It requires actively choosing to let go and move forward.”
She then referenced a quote from ASN’s founder, Melissa Ohden’s healing curriculum book, which addresses forgiveness. Melissa wrote, “Knowing every person is a person with inherent dignity and value, just like you, is an anchor. Recognizing that every person, including you, makes mistakes. But sometimes disastrous outcomes are also a firm foundation for forgiveness. Realizing that forgiveness is something that will transform your life as much, if not even more so, than the person you forgive is also powerful.”
Kara explained that forgiveness not only provides emotional healing but also has physical benefits. While trauma can negatively affect the nervous and immune systems, leading to issues like depression, diabetes, and heart disease, forgiveness can reduce stress levels and improve overall health. (Johns Hopkins Medicine, 2024)
She discussed resilience as a crucial concept when addressing generational trauma. Resilience, the capacity to overcome and recover from adversity, can also be passed down through epigenetics, similar to trauma. Studies have shown that an epigenetic signature of resilience may be present from conception, with some genomes being more adaptable and modifiable through environmental influences. (Smeeth, 2021)
Kara emphasized that resilience can be shaped by family, friends, and life experiences, and it involves developing healthy behaviors. This relates back to focusing on the narratives that clients want their children and future generations to embody. (Tang, 2021)
Kara concluded by thanking everyone for their participation and engagement. She said, “Despite challenges and seemingly unchangeable situations, hope exists, and meaningful change is possible for both individuals and future generations.”
NEXT STEPS
Click here to watch the video of this webinar.
Click here to go to the self-guided Unraveled Roots for Men resources
Click here to to to the facilitator Unraveled Roots for Men resources
Click here to register for the next Men’s Healing Matters webinar.
Click here to register for the next Abortion Healing Provider webinar.
Click here to access Support After Abortion’s Resource Library.
Click here to explore Support After Abortion’s services, resources, and training for Abortion Healing Providers.
© Support After Abortion
REFERENCES
Kara offered a list of the citations she referenced in her presentation:
Amare, S. (2021). Do you carry the trauma of your ancestors? Berkeley Scientific Journal. https://bsj.studentorg.berkeley.edu/do-you-carry-the-trauma-of-your-ancestors/
American Psychological Association. (2023, November 15). APA dictionary of psychology: Intergenerational trauma. https://dictionary.apa.org/intergenerational-trauma
Finer, L., Frohwirth, L., Dauhphinee, L., Singh, S., & Moore, A. (2005). Reasons US women have abortions: Quantitative and qualitative perspectives. Guttmacher Institute Journal, 37(3), 110-118.
Gelkopf, M. (2018). Social njustice and the cycle of traumatic childhood experiences and multiple problems in adulthood. JAMA Network Open, 1(7), e184488.
Holmes, H., Resnick, H., Gilpatrick, D., & Best, C. (1996) Rape-related pregnancy: Estimates and descriptive characteristics from a national sample of women. American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 175(2), 320-324. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8765248/
Johns Hopkins Medicine. (2024). Forgiveness: Your health depends on it. Retrieved June 19, 2024, from https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/forgiveness-your-health-depends-on-it#:~:text=Chronic%20anger%20%20puts%20you%20into,levels%2C%20leading%20to%20improved%20health.
Liu, Y. (2023). Giving birth to the unborn: Processing the experience of sibling abortion and transgenerational trauma in groups. Sage Journals, 56(2), 1-15. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/05333164221150424
Ohden, M. (2020). You are more: A survivor’s guide to healing.
Smeeth, D., Beck, S., Karam, E., & Pluess, M. (2021). The role of epigenetics in psychological resilience. Lancet Psychiatry, 8(7), 620-629. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9561637/
Tang, H., Tanaka, G., & Bursztajn, H. (2021). Transgenerational transmission of resilience after catastrophic trauma. Psychiatric Times, 38(6).
U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024, April 9). About adverse childhood experiences. https://www.cdc.gov/aces/about/index.html.