Betrayal Trauma: Definition, History, and Clinical Implications
Abstract
Betrayal trauma refers to a psychological injury that is caused by a breach of trust from a significant other. The psychological damage caused by this trauma often leads to symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This article provides an overview of betrayal trauma, including its definition, history, and clinical implications. The article also discusses current research and clinical implications of betrayal trauma, as well as potential treatment strategies.
Keywords: Betrayal trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), psychological injury, treatment strategies
Introduction
Betrayal trauma refers to a psychological injury caused by a breach of trust from a significant other. This trauma can be caused by a variety of experiences, including infidelity, abandonment, or abuse. Betrayal trauma is commonly associated with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms, such as intrusive thoughts and flashbacks, as well as difficulty trusting others. This article will provide an overview of betrayal trauma, including its definition, history, and clinical implications.
Definition
Betrayal trauma is defined as an injury to one’s psychological well-being caused by a breach of trust from a significant other (Muller & Bost, 2020). This trauma can be caused by a variety of experiences, including infidelity, abandonment, or abuse. Betrayal trauma is distinct from other forms of trauma, such as single-incident trauma, in that it is caused by a person who is a significant other, such as a partner, family member, or close friend. Betrayal trauma is also distinct from other forms of trauma, such as complex trauma, in that it is caused by a single event, rather than a series of events.
History
Betrayal trauma has been studied since the early 1990s. Early research focused on the psychological effects of infidelity (Rosenberg et al., 1993). Subsequent research has expanded to include other forms of betrayal, such as abandonment and abuse (Walsh & Rosen, 1995). More recently, research has shifted to focus on the clinical implications of betrayal trauma, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms (Muller & Bost, 2020).
Clinical Implications
Betrayal trauma can lead to a variety of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Betrayal trauma is particularly associated with PTSD symptoms, such as intrusive thoughts and flashbacks, as well as difficulty trusting others (Muller & Bost, 2020). These symptoms can lead to difficulty functioning in interpersonal relationships and in work and school settings.
Current Research
Research on betrayal trauma has focused on understanding the psychological impact of betrayal and developing effective treatments. Studies have found that individuals with betrayal trauma often experience symptoms of PTSD, including intrusive thoughts and flashbacks (Muller & Bost, 2020). Additionally, research has found that betrayal trauma is associated with decreased self-esteem and emotional regulation (Walsh & Rosen, 1995).
Treatment Strategies
There are a variety of treatment strategies for individuals with betrayal trauma. A common approach is cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which can be used to help individuals identify and challenge negative thoughts and behaviors associated with betrayal trauma (Muller & Bost, 2020). Additionally, exposure therapy can be used to help individuals confront their trauma-related fears and reduce their avoidance of reminders of the trauma. Other treatment strategies include mindfulness and acceptance-based approaches, which can be used to help individuals become more aware of their thoughts and feelings and develop healthier coping strategies.
Conclusion
Betrayal trauma is an injury to one’s psychological well-being caused by a breach of trust from a significant other. This trauma can lead to symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), including intrusive thoughts and flashbacks, as well as difficulty trusting others. Current research on betrayal trauma has focused on understanding the psychological impact of betrayal and developing effective treatments. Common treatment strategies for betrayal trauma include cognitive-behavioral therapy, exposure therapy, and mindfulness and acceptance-based approaches.
References
Muller, R. J., & Bost, K. A. (2020). Betrayal trauma: A review of the literature. Traumatology, 26(2), 72-81.
Rosenberg, K. D., Boyd, M. A., & Dworkin, S. G. (1993). The effects of infidelity on the betrayed partner. Journal of Social and Personal Relationships, 10(4), 437-454.
Walsh, J., & Rosen, K. H. (1995). Betrayal trauma: The logic of forgetting childhood abuse. Harvard University Press.