Cultural Trauma

Cultural trauma refers to the lasting impact that traumatic events have on a group’s identity and shared experience. This can arise from experiences like war, genocide, colonization, or systemic oppression, which deeply affect a community's psyche. Such trauma can alter collective memories, influence cultural expressions, and shape future generations' values and behaviors. It often manifests in feelings of loss, grief, and a struggle to maintain cultural identity. Over time, groups may seek recognition and healing through storytelling, memorialization, or social movements, aiming to address past injustices and foster resilience within their cultures.