Cultural Trauma (Alexander et al.)

Cultural trauma, as described by Alexander et al., refers to the collective harm experienced by a group when a traumatic event—such as genocide, colonization, or forced displacement—disrupts their identity, history, and sense of belonging. This trauma is not just individual but shared among community members, shaping their collective consciousness, narratives, and cultural practices. It can lead to ongoing feelings of loss, marginalization, and mistrust, affecting how the group perceives itself and interacts with society. Recognizing cultural trauma involves understanding how these deep, collective wounds influence a group's ongoing social and cultural life.