When the Self Rifts-and How It Repairs

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Traumatic and complex stress disorders involve dissociation, moral injury, shame, and altered large-scale brain network architecture. Childhood trauma increases risk for borderline personality disorder, PTSD, and complex PTSD through mechanisms including moral injury and shame. Dual-process and triple-network models integrate cognitive, affective, and neurobiological pathways linking moral transgressions, dissociative responses, and traumatic illness. Neuroplasticity and canalization influence symptom expression and treatment responsiveness. Evidence-based guidelines and specialized therapies address prevention and treatment of posttraumatic stress and complex traumatic stress. Positive emotions and broaden-and-build processes support resilience and recovery alongside targeted interventions for dissociation and moral injury.

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