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The Absence of Cure

The Core of Malignant Trauma and Symbolization

American Association of Pastoral Counselors

This article differentiates between psychological trauma resulting from natural events and trauma that results at the hands of other human beings—malignant trauma. In malignant trauma, cure is not attainable because the core of traumatic experience remains in part untouched by symbolic expressions, leaving a person with a sense of inarticulateness and isolation. Malignant trauma is the result of five interrelated experiences of loss: (a) shock associated with the loss of the expectation of help; (b) loss of control over the integrity of one's body; (c) loss in the belief that the other is obliged to respond to a cry; (d) loss of trust associated with the experience of betrayal; and (e) loss of an other's commitment to recognize, respect, and respond to one's desires and needs. These losses defy symbolization because symbolization is contingent upon constitutional biological structures and experiences of an obliged, trustworthy, and faithful other.

Journal of Interpersonal Violence, Vol. 14, No. 11, 1193-1210 (1999)
DOI: 10.1177/088626099014011005


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