What is a characteristic of intergenerational abuse?

A characteristic of intergenerational abuse is that it involves abuse that is passed down from one generation to another. This can manifest in various forms, such as physical, emotional, or psychological abuse, and often occurs within family units. The dynamics of power, control, and learned behaviors contribute to this cycle, where the patterns of abuse are repeated in successive generations.

While abuse can and does occur in public spaces, cultural justifications for abuse, or take forms beyond physical acts, these do not specifically define intergenerational abuse itself. The core of intergenerational abuse lies in the transmission of abusive behaviors and experiences across familial lineages, emphasizing the importance of understanding family dynamics and the impact of historical trauma.