Marriage After Childhood Trauma

"Close attachment bonds greatly benefit us throughout life. Stable, loving connections give us a secure sense of self ("I'm worthy of love; I matter; I trust myself and others"); provide needed emotional comfort; regulate strong, distressing emotions; promote mental and physical health; and foster resilience during distressing times. Conversely, isolation is as harmful to physical health as smoking, hypertension, and high cholesterol. In loving adult relationships, we find a safe haven for comfort and a secure base for venturing out into the world."

"Like almost all others, survivors of childhood trauma long for loving connection. Although they often bring unique challenges to marriage as a result of their hidden wounds, they are capable of forming secure and safe marital relationships. In fact, it is a tribute to their courage that they'll risk connection again after their hearts have been broken. Susan (Sue) Johnson is the primary developer of emotionally focused therapy for couples (EFT),"

Survivors of childhood trauma long for loving connection yet often bring hidden wounds that strain intimate relationships while remaining capable of secure, safe marriages. Emotionally focused therapy for couples (EFT) targets unmet attachment needs that drive repeating marital conflicts and supports partners in risking connection to find comfort and healing. Secure attachment benefits adults across life by providing a sense of worth, emotional comfort, regulation of intense emotions, better mental and physical health, and resilience. Isolation harms health comparably to smoking. Dependence on trusted partners calms the nervous system and fosters confidence, self-reliance, and stronger family resilience.

Read at Psychology Today