Estimates are that around one third of the U.S. adult population has a history of some kind of childhood maltreatment, with most of this occurring in the family of origin at the hands of parents or parental figures. These adverse childhood experiences are associated with a range of psychological and somatic problems in later life, and are frequently the catalyst for tenuous relationships between adult survivors of childhood maltreatment and the older adults who harmed them. These strained relationships face new challenges when the survivor of abuse is called on to become a filial caregiver for the abusive elder as that person ages. This presentation will explore some of the common dilemmas inherent in this arrangement. It will discuss ways for the adult survivor to avoid entering trauma reenactments with their abusive elder, and strategies for being self-protective. It will also offer ideas for adult survivors and their supporters, including therapists, about how to respond to such demands in ways that reduce further harms to the adult survivor.
Where to attend
- Event: American Psychological Association Annual Convention
- Sponsoring organization: APA Division of Trauma Psychology
- Registration information: Free to all registered APA Convention participants
- Date: Thursday, August 4th, 2016
- Time: 12:00-1:50pm
- Room: 304 Level 2 – Meeting Room Level
- Venue: Denver Convention Center
- City: Denver, CO