The Impact of Unresolved Family-of-Origin Trauma on Marital Vulnerability: A Narrative Analysis

Abstract

This study aimed to explore how unresolved trauma from the family of origin contributes to vulnerability in adult marital relationships, as narrated by individuals with early adverse experiences. Using a qualitative narrative research design, the study involved semi-structured interviews with 22 adult participants (12 women, 10 men) residing in Canada, all of whom self-identified as having experienced significant trauma in their family of origin. Participants were selected through purposive sampling to ensure diversity in marital status and background. Interviews continued until theoretical saturation was achieved and were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using thematic narrative analysis. NVivo software was used to facilitate coding and pattern recognition across transcripts. Analysis revealed three overarching themes: (1) Emotional Echoes of the Past, including internalized shame, hypervigilance, and emotional disconnection; (2) Intergenerational Transmission of Dysfunction, encompassing the repetition of conflict patterns, projection onto partners, and distorted marital roles; and (3) Struggles Toward Healing and Relational Resilience, characterized by efforts to break cycles, rebuild emotional literacy, and reprocess family narratives. Participants' stories illustrated how unresolved trauma shaped emotional regulation, attachment, and relational roles, while also highlighting transformative strategies employed to foster marital growth and stability. Unresolved family-of-origin trauma significantly influences marital vulnerability through embedded emotional and behavioral patterns. However, individuals are also capable of relational healing through narrative reconstruction, boundary-setting, and conscious re-engagement with emotional intimacy. The findings underscore the importance of trauma-informed approaches in marital therapy and advocate for deeper clinical attention to clients’ family histories and narrative frameworks.