The history of scientific understanding of the phenomenon of psychological trauma and the transformation of its definitions
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.29038/2227-1376-2025-46-neiKeywords:
psychological trauma, psychoanalytic theories, war, PTSD, history of psychotraumatologyAbstract
Purpose. The article is devoted to a comprehensive analysis of the phenomenon of psychological trauma as a multidimensional construct that integrates individual experience, biopsychological mechanisms, and sociocultural factors. The paper describes the evolution of scientific approaches to understanding trauma—from early descriptions in ancient civilizations to modern clinical and psychodynamic models. The relevance of the topic is due to the rapid increase in the frequency of traumatic experiences in the global and Ukrainian contexts, which is associated with armed conflicts, migration processes, and socio-political crises.
Methods. The study uses methods of theoretical analysis, generalization, and historical and comparative review of scientific sources. It analyzes classical psychoanalytic concepts, modern clinical models of traumatization, the results of American and European studies, as well as statistics on the prevalence of psychotraumatic disorders in Ukraine.
Results. It was found that psychological trauma is a dynamic process that encompasses dissociative mechanisms, impaired integration of experience, and changes in the structure of self-identity. It has been demonstrated that in different historical periods, the concept of trauma has evolved from a description of individual symptoms to an understanding of it as a systemic phenomenon that includes biological, cognitive, and socio-psychological aspects. A synthesis of contemporary research confirms the high prevalence of traumatic experiences in the global population and particularly high rates among Ukrainians as a result of war. Special attention is given to the concepts of complex trauma and the long-term consequences of repeated violence.
Conclusions. Psychological trauma is a multidimensional construct formed by the interaction of external events and internal mental mechanisms. Its current understanding requires the integration of psychoanalytic, clinical, and social approaches. The results obtained emphasize the need for further interdisciplinary research to develop effective strategies for treating and supporting victims.
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