HOW DO PATTERNS OF ABUSE OR DYSFUNCTIONAL BEHAVIOOUR REPEAT ACROSS GENERATIONS?

By: Sneha Raichal Philip

Trigger warning: This blog discusses familial abuse, including substance abuse, self-esteem issues, sexual/ physical/emotional abuse, etc.,  that may be triggering for some readers. Reader discretion is advised, and please prioritise your well-being while engaging with this content.

INTRODUCTION

Patterns of abuse repeat across generations, this pervasive phenomenon is known as intergenerational transmission or the cycle of abuse. This cycle involves the transfer of harmful behaviors and dysfunctional relationship patterns from one generation to the next. Understanding the factors because of which these patterns persist is crucial for addressing and breaking the cycle.

FACTORS CONTRIBUTING TO THE CYCLE OF ABUSE

1. Bad Role Models: 

“Inherited from my father, anger issues became an unwelcome legacy.” - Project Mehviyat member

During the early years of development, children learn how to behave with others by observing their parents. If they witness these role models inflicting abuse or sense dysfunction in their family, they may replicate these patterns and become perpetrators or victims of violence. Coping mechanisms such as irrational aggression, alcoholism, and substance abuse are often passed down from one generation to the other, thereby continuing this vicious cycle. These individuals may not even realize that their behavior is abusive because they have not been exposed to healthy family dynamics or have not received education on the impact of abuse.

2. Unresolved trauma:

Traumatic experiences or a history of abuse impact an individual's mental and emotional well-being. They may develop psychological issues, such as low self-esteem, anger, or a distorted sense of boundaries, and will struggle to cope with their emotions, potentially leading them to use abusive behavior as a means of coping or asserting control. These victims of unresolved trauma may unconsciously project their issues onto their intimate relationships or parenting styles.

3. Normalization of Abuse:

When abusive behavior is normalized within a family and society, individuals may perceive it as an acceptable way to interact. Normalization makes it difficult for individuals to recognize and break the cycle of abuse. Media and online content play an important role in shaping perceptions of relationships. If abusive behavior is glamorized or portrayed as acceptable, it may contribute to the normalization of such actions. A recent example of such an incident is the people’s reception of the movie ‘Animal’. Some individuals have been brainwashed to the extent that they are not aware of what behavior is abusive, especially if they have not been exposed to healthy relationship dynamics or have not received education on the impact of abuse.

4. Social and cultural influences:

Societal norms and cultural attitudes are influential in shaping people’s perceptions of acceptable behavior, they may contribute to the acceptance and justification of abusive behavior. Behaviors that are overlooked due to cultural or societal context may lead to perpetuating abusive patterns In cultures where there are significant power imbalances, such as in hierarchical structures or unequal relationships, abusive behavior may be tolerated and promoted because of fear and dependency.

CONCLUSION

Without intervention or access to resources that promote healthy relationships, individuals may continue the patterns they learned in their family of origin. Breaking the cycle often requires external support and education but many don’t take action due to fear of retaliation. Instead of being bystanders we should collectively fight against abuse and raise awareness regarding it.