“The greatest damage done by neglect, trauma, or emotional loss is not the immediate pain they inflict but the long-term distortions they induce in the way a developing child will continue to interpret the world and her situation in it”
— Gabor Mate
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Simplified Meaning:
Painful experiences like neglect or trauma during childhood can change how a person sees the world and themselves, even long after the events are over. Imagine a child who grows up in a home where they feel unloved and ignored. This isn't just upsetting in the moment; it can lead to them believing they're not worthy of love or care as they grow older. These deep-seated beliefs can affect their relationships, job confidence, and overall happiness. For instance, they might struggle to trust others or feel they can't succeed because of these early negative experiences. Overcoming such challenges often requires recognizing these distorted views and working to change them, sometimes with the help of therapy or strong, supportive relationships.
Related tags
Child development Emotional development Emotional health Emotional neglect Long-term effects Mental health Psychological impact Psychology Trauma
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