Dissociation from oneself has long-term implications for who we become.

How common is developmental trauma?

Developmental trauma is more common than many of us realize. According to the National Child Traumatic Stress Network, 78% of children reported more than one traumatic experience before the age of 5. Twenty percent of children up to the age of 6 were receiving treatment for traumatic experiences, including sexual abuse, neglect, exposure to domestic violence, and traumatic loss or bereavement.

Adults who suffered from developmental trauma may go on to develop Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, or "cPTSD", which is characterized by difficulties in: emotional regulation, consciousness and memory, self-perception, distorted perceptions of perpetrators of abuse, difficulties in relationships with other people, and negative effects on the meaningfulness of life.

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