Attachment Trauma: What has been Missing in Trauma Treatment

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Clinical Psychology
• Trauma Studies

Background:

• Attachment trauma is frequently overlooked in clinical practice.
• A clear definition and understanding of attachment trauma are needed.
• Case examples highlight the impact of traumatic attachment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive definition of attachment trauma.
• To discuss the pathological processes involved in attachment trauma.
• To outline components of treatment for attachment trauma.

Main Methods:

• Commentary on existing research (Farina & Schimmenti, 2025).
• Definition and conceptualization of attachment trauma.
• Illustrative case examples.

Main Results:

• Attachment trauma creates vulnerability to perpetrators.
• Exploitation occurs by leveraging the need for connection.
• Recognition and treatment are vital.

Conclusions:

• Clinicians must be educated on recognizing attachment trauma.
• Effective treatment strategies are essential for patient safety.
• Addressing attachment trauma mitigates risks of exploitation.