Childhood is a critical stage in human development. It is during these years that our view of the world, ourselves, and even God is often shaped. Unfortunately, many children grow up navigating painful experiences such as divorce, abuse, alcoholism, poverty, or even natural disasters. These events can leave lasting emotional and psychological scars—often referred to as family of origin wounds.
Family of origin wounds are the lingering emotional and developmental impacts of early relational trauma—especially those experienced within the home environment. When a child’s first experiences of love, security, and identity are interrupted by trauma, the consequences can ripple into every stage of life. Yet, there is hope. Research consistently shows that resilience—the ability to recover and adapt—can be nurtured, even after significant adversity.
“Children who manage to fare well despite these traumatic events are viewed as being resilient or stress-resistant.” — D. W. Wong
Resilience is more than surviving hardship and it is not toxic positivity; it’s the ability to adapt, grow, and thrive despite it. Just because a child experiences trauma does not mean they are doomed to a life of dysfunction. A study by Brewer-Smyth & Koenig (2014) affirm, children show a wide range of outcomes after trauma—many go on to develop strength, empathy, and deep insight.
However, trauma within the family of origin can have especially deep effects. Bryant (2017) found that separation from parents often results in emotional and attachment issues that can follow a person into adulthood. These unresolved family of origin wounds can later manifest as anxious or avoidant attachment styles, difficulty in relationships, and even PTSD.
Trauma impacts development across several domains: cognitive, physical, social, and emotional. In some cases, repeated trauma without appropriate support leads to what is known as Developmental Trauma Disorder—a condition marked by impairments in attachment, identity, and emotional regulation (Schimmenti & Caretti, 2014).
The good news? Early protective factors provide a level of healing. While the scars of family of origin wounds may run deep, they are not beyond reach of restoration—especially when faith, community, and supportive relationships are present.
“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” — Galatians 6:2
According to Richard Bryant, a researcher specializing in post-traumatic stress disorder, social support is one of the most significant factors in post-trauma recovery. Faith-based communities provide unique protective benefits. Within these settings, children can be taught coping skills such as relaxation techniques, learning to talk about emotions – not denying them, and self-regulation. Parents or caregivers can be empowered to develop strengths and reinforce healthy development.
Additionally, spiritual communities may even buffer against the neurobiological consequences of trauma. Research also shows spirituality can offer a protective effect on the neuroendocrine stress system, promoting healing at both the emotional and physical levels.
From Brokenness to Wholeness
With the right early interventions—emotional support, community involvement, spiritual connection, and professional counseling —resilience can be cultivated.
Trauma in childhood—especially within the family—can be deeply painful. Acknowledging and addressing emotional injuries, creating safe communities, and inviting God into the healing process, children and adults alike can move from pain to purpose. There is always hope in the hands of the One who restores.
-Kelly Roberson – learn more about working with Kelly here!
