Collective Trauma

Collective trauma refers to the emotional and psychological impact experienced by a group of people after a shared traumatic event, such as war, natural disasters, or systemic violence. This trauma affects the group’s identity, culture, and memory, often leading to lasting scars that can be transmitted across generations. Collective memory, which is how groups remember and construct narratives about their past, can preserve these traumatic experiences, influencing behaviors and beliefs. Understanding collective trauma is essential for healing and fostering resilience, as it shapes how communities respond to current and future challenges.