ABSTRACT
Chapter 3 focuses on developmental trauma from an attachment-theory and an existential framework. Existential scholars posit that trauma disrupts our core beliefs and assumptions about the world (e.g., that the world is safe, predictable, meaningful, fair, and just). Individuals who have experienced developmental trauma lack the foundational elements (e.g., secure attachment, control, self-esteem, and self-worth) that usually protect against existential threats to our core beliefs and assumptions. This chapter describes research on trauma, developmental trauma, attachment, and existentialism.
