38.4 CONSIDERING THE ROLE OF INTERGENERATIONAL TRAUMA

Abstract

The objective of this presentation is to increase clinician awareness about the intergenerational transmission of childhood maltreatment (including potential mechanisms), child behavioral and mental health outcomes, psychotherapeutic interventions, and changes to interventions during the COVID-19 pandemic. This presentation will review the mechanisms of intergenerational transmission, common behavioral outcomes associated with a maternal history of exposure to childhood maltreatment, and changes in therapeutic interventions during the pandemic. There is growing evidence that the effects of childhood maltreatment are not limited to a single individual and may be transmitted across generations, increasing the risk for behavioral and mental health disorders in offspring. We will review potential mechanisms for mental health disorders in children and adolescents associated with a maternal history of exposure to childhood maltreatment. We will briefly examine less-established therapeutic interventions for children and families such as mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT), Attachment and Biobehavioral Catch-up (ABC), and Circle of Security. Special attention will be given to adaptations that have been successfully employed during the COVID-19 pandemic. Understanding the potential mechanisms and outcomes associated with the intergenerational transmission of childhood maltreatment will aid child and adolescent psychiatrists in identifying interventions and developing appropriate treatment plans that address broader aspects of maltreatment, therefore leading to improved outcomes.