Intergenerational Trauma Explained: The Role of Reflective Function and Mentalization in Healing Attachment (opens in new tab)

In this episode, we explore how intergenerational trauma shapes attachment patterns and how reflective function (RF) and mentalization can help break the cycle. Drawing on research from Fonagy, Slade, and Berthelot, we examine how trauma-specific reflective functioning influences disorganized attachment and how therapies such as Mentalization-Based Therapy (MBT), Transference-Focused Psychotherapy (TFP), and Minding the Baby (MTB) strengthen reflective capacity and promote secure attachment. ...