THE INFLUENCE OF CHILD TRAUMA ON THE ADULT’S SELF-STATE FORMATION

Abstract

The article is devoted to the influence of childhood trauma on the formation of an adult “Self-state”, whichreaches a person’s ability to self-regulate, make decisions, and build healthy interpersonal relationships. The study examines the main mechanisms through which early traumatic experiences change cognitive schemas, emotional states, and behavior of an adult. Particular attention is paid to the role of childhood experiences in the formation of personality traits, levels of autonomy, and independence.The main types of childhood trauma are analyzed: emotional neglect, physical and psychological violence, instability of the family environment, separation/loss of parents. Their influence on the structure of the personality is determined through the prism of transactional analysis. The influence of trauma on the development of fixation in the child or parent “Self-state” is considered, which, in turn, can affect theintegration of an adult in adulthood.Special emphasis is placed on the mechanisms of psychological protection that are formed in childhood andaffect the perception of oneself and others. It has been determined that adults who have experienced significant childhood traumas more often demonstrate difficulties in establishing trusting relationships, are slower to gain experience in avoiding conflicts or, conversely, more often demonstrate aggressive behavior, low self-esteem, constant fear, feelings of inferiority, perfectionism, fear of making a mistake, difficulties in making decisions, and adesire to control.The importance of early diagnosis and intervention in the treatment of the psychological consequences of childhood traumas is outlined. It is noted that timely experiencing traumatic states allows reducing the negativeimpact on the further development of the personality. Psychotherapeutic work aims not only to realize traumatic events, but also to integrate them and form an adult “I-state” through reflection, safe therapeutic contact, andrestoration of a normal mental state.The results of the study have important practical significance for psychologists, psychotherapists, social workers,and teachers who work with the consequences of childhood traumas.