Trauma and Attachment

'This monograph contains a rich variety of material that is not usually included in traditional writings on trauma. In addition to the theoretical and clinical perspectives, poetry and storytelling join in to weave a vivid tapestry of multifaceted approaches to trauma. Whilst remaining true to its theoretical base (which, of course, is Bowlby's attachment theory), the monograph succeeds in locating its subject matter in wider perspectives, thus enabling the reader to appreciate the complexity of contributing factors. It is not easy to compile a single publication out of a conference; yet, this monograph achieves its objective by offering a coherent treatment of trauma that also includes some up-to-date approaches and innovations. The papers are written with authority, clarity and sensitivity and will provide the reader with a most beneficial elaboration of trauma from an attachment theory perspective.'- Renos K. Papadopoulos'Trauma and Attachment engages its subject with both heart and intellect. In Gillian Slovo's moving description of her courtroom encounters with the men who murdered her mother, or in Chris Purnell's insightful memoir of growing up in a children's home, we confront the experience of trauma at its most immediate. In Bessel van der Kolk's innovative formulation, we come closer to understanding the impact of prolonged, repeated trauma on the developing child. This volume adds to the growing literature that documents the central role of disrupted attachment in most traumatic disorders.'- Judith L. Herman, Clinical Professor of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School