What do we do?
We explore how trauma affects lives and seek ways to better understand it and respond effectively.
Negative and positive trauma consequences
Research shows that experiencing trauma most often leads to negative psychological changes, such as PTSD, which is well documented in the literature. However, increasing attention is being paid to the phenomenon of posttraumatic growth (PTG) — positive changes in relationships, self-perception, and life philosophy that can emerge as a result of coping with trauma. A chronic somatic illness can be one such experience — does it inevitably lead to breakdown, or can it become an opportunity for growth and improved psychological well-being?
The research is conducted by
Prof. PhD Marcin Rzeszutek
Post-traumatic stress disorder in Poland
We study why so many people in Poland suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Our studies show that nearly 19% of Poles may have this disorder. Early analyses among Poles who survived World War II suggest that about 29–39% of them could have PTSD, and this is a much higher result when compared to citizens of other European countries. We analyse whether such a high level of traumatization of the ancestors could have affected the mental health of subsequent generations of Poles through mechanism of transgenerational transmission of trauma from that period.
The research is conducted by
Prof. PhD Maja Lis-Turlejska
How does trauma affect our body?
In our studies, we analyse mechanisms leading to psychosomatic disorders. In particular, we explore processes leading to somatisation of mental conditions, in which the body acts as a way for controlling emotions post traumatic experiences. Long-term research showed that psychosomatic disorders connect our body with our mind. In this context, we also examine hidden forms of trauma in families, such as parentification, a situation in which children take on adult roles in the family.
The research is conducted by
Prof. PhD Katarzyna Schier
Consequences of childhood trauma
The ongoing research on the consequences of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) focuses on complex PTSD (C-PTSD) and its mechanisms, such as difficulties in emotion regulation and dysfunctional metacognition. Different types of trauma impact adult psychopathology — for example, sexual abuse is associated with the highest severity of PTSD and problematic alcohol use in women. ACEs are recognized as a universal risk factor not only for mental disorders, but also for addictions and physical health problems.
The research is conducted by
Assoc. Prof. Małgorzata Dragan, University of Warsaw
Trauma and nutritional behaviours
Research on eating behaviors in the context of traumatic experiences reveals the significant role childhood experiences play in shaping dietary habits in adulthood. Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) can lead to difficulties in emotion regulation and emotional eating, increasing the risk of poor diet and health problems such as obesity. On the other hand, Positive Childhood Experiences (PCEs) support the development of a healthy relationship with food and better diet quality later in life. Understanding these connections can help in developing effective strategies to support healthy eating habits and overall mental and physical well-being.
The research is conducted by
Joanna Kowalkowska, PhD
