Is Intergenerational Trauma Genetic?

Intergenerational trauma is believed to pass from one generation to the next through genetic changes to a person's DNA after they experience trauma. There is some evidence that these genetic markers are passed on to a person's offspring.

Can trauma be passed down genetically?

A growing body of research suggests that trauma (like from extreme stress or starvation among many other things) can be passed from one generation to the next. Here's how: Trauma can leave a chemical mark on a person's genes, which can then be passed down to future generations.

Can you inherit trauma from your parents?

The newest research in epigenetics tells us that you and I can inherit gene changes from traumas that our parents and grandparents experienced. ... This adaptive change can then be passed down to our children and grandchildren biologically preparing them to deal with similar trauma.