Pervasive Traumatic Stress: A Systematic Review of the Intersection Between Intergenerational and Complex Trauma

This qualitative systematic review seeks to explore the intersections between intergenerational and complex trauma. The existing literature reveals a well-documented connection between these concepts, yet there is a lack of clarity and consistency. This study proposes the phenomenological category of Pervasive Traumatic Stress (PvTS) to explore their specific intersections. PvTS was defined as pervasive traumatic stress experienced due to being born or raised in a network of relationships affected by direct or indirect traumatization, leading to disturbances in emotion regulation, self-concept, and relational/attachment systems. The study’s aim was to analyse first-person descriptions to answer questions regarding the subjective experiences, patterns, and causal mechanisms of PvTS. Four databases (Embase, CINAHL, MEDLINE, and PsycINFO) were searched for studies using qualitative methods, describing experiences of complex or intergenerational trauma, in either English or Hindi, and available in print or digital forms. Twelve studies were selected using the selection criteria. The data was analysed using Realist Thematic Analysis. This was the first time this method was employed in a review study. APA’s Qualitative Meta-Analysis Article Reporting Standards were followed. PvTS experiences were organised around the themes of connection/disconnection, repetition/reorientation, and confusion/comprehension. Ten patterns were identified that captured the nuances and relationships between the themes. These findings shift the focus of trauma understanding and intervention towards trans-individualistic, historical, and social contexts; necessitating research beyond North America; and a move away from solely focusing on conventionally understood traumatic events.