The American Journal of Social Science and Education Innovations
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TYPE
Original Research
PAGE NO.
33-42
10.37547/tajssei/Volume07Issue04-05
OPEN ACCESS
SUBMITED
24 February 2025
ACCEPTED
22 March 2025
PUBLISHED
26 April 2025
VOLUME
Vol.07 Issue 04 2025
CITATION
Valentyna Petrenko. (2025). Schema Therapy for Overcoming
Intergenerational Trauma in Forced Migrants. The American Journal of Social
Science and Education Innovations, 7(04), 33
–
42.
https://doi.org/10.37547/tajssei/Volume07Issue04-05
COPYRIGHT
© 2025 Original content from this work may be used under the terms
of the creative commons attributes 4.0 License.
Schema Therapy for
Overcoming
Intergenerational Trauma
in Forced Migrants
Valentyna Petrenko
Licensed Psychologist (Ukraine), Trauma and Adaptation Specialist,
Schema Therapist and EMDR Therapist (Ukraine).
Member of the EMDR Association, the International Society of Schema
Therapy (ISST), and the Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Association. Los
Angeles, USA.
Abstract:
This article examines the application of
schema therapy in combination with genogram analysis
to reduce intergenerational trauma in forced migrants.
The study addresses the issue of negative beliefs
transmitted from older generations to younger ones.
The novelty of the research lies in the comprehensive
examination of historical factors that have influenced
the social adaptation of these groups. The text provides
an analysis of existing developments in migration
psychology. The collected data confirm that inherited
patterns of anxious perception reduce the ability to
establish connections within a new community. The
study describes mechanisms for involving family
members in the therapeutic process, explores family
histories, and analyzes clinical recommendations and
expert experiences. The aim of the research is to
demonstrate that combining targeted interventions for
inherited beliefs with practices that activate internal
resources contributes to the more successful
integration of forced migrants into a new environment.
To achieve this goal, comparative and analytical
methods were used. The conclusion outlines promising
directions for therapeutic support for families in high-
vulnerability zones. This material is intended for
psychologists, migration sociology specialists, and the
academic community. The proposed conclusions are
based on a review of literature sources.
Keywords:
schema therapy, intergenerational trauma,
forced migrants, genogram, family counseling, cognitive
patterns, migration psychology, Inner Child.
Introduction:
Migration is associated with numerous
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psychological difficulties, including changes in identity,
cultural dissonance, and emotional tension. Early
maladaptive schemas (EMS) formed in childhood and
exacerbated by intergenerational trauma can
significantly affect an individual's ability to cope with
migration-related stress. This article examines the
relationship between EMS and intergenerational
trauma, emphasizing the importance of schema
therapy and genogram analysis for understanding and
addressing these issues.
The phenomenon of intergenerational trauma has
gained particular significance in the study of forced
migration. The rapid transformation of the social
environment creates conditions for the reinforcement
of negative beliefs inherited from previous
generations. The objective of this study is to
demonstrate the advantages of combining schema
therapy with genogram analysis to mitigate negative
schemas in forced migrants. To achieve this objective,
the following research tasks have been formulated:
identifying the nature of intergenerational patterns
affecting adaptation during relocation, assessing the
effectiveness of the genogram in diagnosing inherited
beliefs, and systematizing practices for working with
the Inner Child while demonstrating their benefits for
transforming family narratives.
The novelty of this study lies in the structured
description of mechanisms through which historical
family experiences influence current psychological
processes. Previous research on migration factors has
been expanded with a detailed review of
methodological approaches that integrate cognitive
techniques with genogram analysis. This combination
of measures offers a more comprehensive correction
of intergenerational schemas, which are reinforced by
the stress of forced relocation and differences in
cultural norms.
This article explores the role of EMS and
intergenerational trauma in the psychological
adaptation of migrants. It examines how schema
therapy and genogram analysis can help gain a deeper
understanding of the emotional and cognitive patterns
that affect adaptation processes. By integrating
theoretical concepts with clinical examples, the article
highlights the therapeutic potential of these
approaches in supporting migrants.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
The following sources were used in the preparation of
this study: I.O. Brunarska [1] examined the impact of
forced migration on the formation of family beliefs,
highlighting the risk of transmitting anxiety-based
schemas to the next generation. M. Bunn [2] collected
data on the effectiveness of family interventions in
working with refugees, emphasizing the importance of
a unified approach across generations. F. Dattilio [3]
described the principles of cognitive-behavioral
interventions that account for historical trauma, while
Q. Jia [4] focused on the social integration of elderly
migrants who rely on family support. H. Mishchuk [5]
studied the process of adapting to new living conditions
among internally displaced persons, and E.M. Reese [6]
traced how unresolved family conflicts affect the mental
health of descendants. D. Rizzi [7] identified the
relationship between resilience and effective coping
strategies for processing traumatic memories. The
materials from the Self Care for Rehabilitation
Professionals Working with Displaced Persons portal [8]
provide additional insights into the importance of
psychological support in forced migration settings. H.
Stolper [9] emphasized the effectiveness of family-
based approaches in addressing intergenerational
patterns, while M. Wiechers [10] described a successful
therapy group for migrants incorporating elements of
schema therapy.
The study employs a qualitative approach, including the
analysis of clinical cases and a theoretical review, to
examine the impact of EMS and intergenerational
trauma on the adaptation of migrants. Data were
obtained from clinical practice, literature reviews, and
genogram analysis to identify recurring patterns and
their psychological effects.
The study employed comparative, analytical, and
synthetic methods. The comparative method facilitated
the examination of different interpretations of family
schemas, the analytical method helped systematize
perspectives on the issue and select relevant data, and
the synthetic method contributed to constructing a
comprehensive concept of the genogram as a diagnostic
and corrective tool for intergenerational narratives. The
proposed methodological framework is based on the
interaction of two components: genogram analysis and
schema therapy, where each procedure supports and
deepens the other.
RESULTS
Results show that migrants with unresolved
intergenerational trauma and rigid EMS experience a
higher level of emotional distress and adaptation
difficulties. Therapeutic interventions based on schema
therapy and genogram analysis have proven effective in
helping clients become aware of and modify their
maladaptive patterns, thereby improving their
psychological well-being.
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Numerous descriptions in specialized literature and
observations by psychologists indicate that forced
migrants often exhibit deeply ingrained beliefs
inherited from older generations [1]. Statements such
as "I must endure everything," "My desires are not
important," or "The world is always unsafe"
significantly influence behavior and emotional
responses. Analytical reviews show that such schemas
become particularly pronounced in situations of forced
relocation, where the stress of losing a familiar
environment intensifies anxious expectations and
feelings of vulnerability [7]. Family surroundings
frequently reinforce these patterns, even when they
hinder social adaptation.
Studies on the integration of forced migrants into new
societies reveal that internal prohibitions formed by
previous generations impact self-esteem and obstruct
the establishment of relationships beyond familiar
circles [4]. Beliefs such as "I must tolerate any situation
without complaint" or "Expressing my needs is
inappropriate" often lead to low motivation in job
searches and reluctance to express discomfort. This
behavior fosters the formation of closed diasporas,
where individuals remain within familiar boundaries,
reinforcing a shared sense of caution. Additional
difficulties arise when parents and children encounter
differing cultural norms: older family members
transmit long-standing beliefs, while younger
individuals, trying to adjust to the new environment,
must reconcile parental expectations with the
demands of the local society.
Guidelines in cognitive-behavioral therapy indicate
that addressing intergenerational schemas requires
analyzing family histories, including past traumatic
experiences [3]. This approach involves creating a
detailed "genealogical map of beliefs," tracing the
origins of destructive thought patterns. This process
helps identify how real or perceived threats became
embedded in family narratives and were reinforced
through collective experience. In counseling forced
migrants, a significant portion of reported concerns
relates to inherited fears and a tendency toward self-
sacrifice, which prevent individuals from prioritizing
their own needs [8].
Clinical
observations
suggest
that
modifying
intergenerational schemas is more effective when all
family members are involved in the process [9].
Practicing specialists note that while individual
counseling is beneficial, it is often complicated by
family pressure, as relatives may resist reconsidering
long-established behavioral principles [2]. A structured
approach involves gradually engaging representatives
of different generations. The first stage involves
identifying common family statements and assessing
their impact on communication styles and worldview.
The second stage focuses on reevaluating beliefs with
the support of a therapist, who helps participants find
evidence that contradicts widely accepted family views.
The third stage consists of learning new response
patterns and reinforcing them in daily life.
Experiences from psychological support centers indicate
that group programs for forced migrants incorporating
elements of schema therapy help foster a more flexible
attitude toward family traditions [10]. Group
discussions, role-playing exercises, and writing tasks
enable individuals to recognize how their fears
developed and where the tendency toward constant
self-sacrifice originated. This approach allows painful
memories to be processed beyond individual
experiences, revealing shared patterns among different
families, which reduces stigma and strengthens mutual
support. Considering national and cultural factors is
essential, as methods that incorporate familiar family
rituals help create a sense of security in the therapeutic
process.
Analysis of interview transcripts with migrants
demonstrates that changing destructive beliefs
improves social integration outcomes: individuals
become more willing to establish contacts, seek
assistance from local organizations, and develop
positive expectations regarding their own success [5].
The weakening of the belief that "everything around is
hostile" is accompanied by increased participation in
community projects, while overcoming the idea that
"my identity does not matter" allows individuals to
assert their needs and take action to fulfill them. Family
conflicts related to generational differences become
less intense as participants gain the opportunity to
discuss their internal struggles without fear of
judgment.
Practicing psychologists emphasize that working with
schemas,
particularly
those
affecting
multiple
generations, requires ongoing support. They note that
reconsidering old beliefs coincides with the emotional
processing of the entire family experience, which may
bring previously unspoken traumatic episodes to the
surface [6]. Despite this complexity, the gradual
weakening of intergenerational schemas enhances
adaptation and fosters migrants' confidence in their
abilities, ultimately contributing to more successful
integration into the new society.
DISCUSSION
The combination of schema therapy techniques and
genogram analysis provides a structured approach to
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tracing the dynamics of negative beliefs transmitted
within families. The use of genograms facilitates the
identification of specific beliefs that emerge in similar
situations across generations. Work with the Inner
Child complements this approach by creating a space
where individuals can identify and reinterpret scripts
established in childhood. Analyzing interviews with
forced migrants reveals that family narratives about
past hardships often instill a pathological conviction
that openly expressing emotions is impossible. This
mindset is reinforced by parental anxiety and a passive
attitude toward personal goals. As a result, adaptation
is hindered by persistent stereotypes such as
"everything around is unsafe" or "personal needs do
not deserve attention."
In some cases, family trauma blends with
contemporary
challenges,
creating
additional
psychological strain. Discussions with clients indicate
that recognizing the origins of these patterns helps
reduce emotional responses to critical events in a new
living environment. To illustrate the mechanism of
accumulating family beliefs, a simplified genogram
sketch has been developed.
The genogram (Figure 1) demonstrates how beliefs such
as "I must endure everything" and "My needs do not
matter" are passed from older relatives to younger
generations, with negative schemas intensifying due to
real stressors associated with forced migration. During
the analysis phase, it is crucial to identify family
episodes that contributed to the formation of these
ideals. Observations indicate that even when some
relatives attempted to improve their lives, they
remained surrounded by an atmosphere of distrust and
fear of rejection. Eliminating this "chain of beliefs"
requires not only targeted intervention but also
systematic work with the entire family history.
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Figure 1. Genogram highlighting intergenerational transmission of beliefs
The Inner Child concept represents the part of an
individual's personality that carries vulnerabilities
formed during traumatic experiences. Under the
schema "My needs do not matter," individuals tend to
suppress their aspirations, justifying this through a
sense of duty to their loved ones. In working with the
Inner Child, therapists guide clients to recognize the
depth of their emotions, observe their childhood
stance from a detached perspective, and begin
rewriting scripts where their individual needs were
invalidated. The following diagram presents a
simplified intervention plan that integrates genogram
analysis with methods for addressing vulnerable
personality parts.
This model outlines five key stages:
1.
Constructing and collaboratively discussing the
genogram with a focus on periods of family upheaval.
2.
Identifying recurring beliefs and analyzing their
impact on present-day behavior.
3.
Addressing
Inner
Child
imagery
and
reevaluating childhood experiences linked to injustice
and insecurity.
4.
Developing and reinforcing alternative beliefs
that encourage open expression of needs.
5.
Utilizing everyday situations to solidify new
response patterns.
Great-
Grandmother
(witnessed major
historical
Grandmother
(ingrained
mistrust)
Grandfather (strict
directives)
Mother ("I should
endure
everything")
Father ("The world
around me is
hostile")
Client (combination
of parental beliefs +
own migration-related
stress)
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FAMILY GENOGRAM
TRACK RECURRENT
DIRECTIVES AND
BEHAVIORAL PATTERNS
INTRODUCE SCHEMA
CONCEPTS AND THE
VULNERABLE CHILD
RESTRUCTURE BELIEFS AND
EXPLORE HISTORICAL
ORIGINS
PRACTICE ALTERNATIVE
RESPONSES IN REAL-LIFE
SITUATIONS
Construct a visual map of relatives and significant events.
Identify repeated traumas (wartime displacement)
Pinpoint core beliefs transferred across generations.
Collect specific statements like "Never ask for help."
Observe how these statements influence present-day coping.
The grandmother warns every child: "Trust nodiv."
Discuss main schema modes (Self-Sacrifice, Mistrust).
Encourage awareness of the Vulnerable Child side.
A client notices intense guilt when expressing needs.
Compare harmful beliefs with actual evidence.
Acknowledge family stories of hardship vs. present realities.
Identifying that "I must not complain" arose in times of extreme
scarcity in the past, which may not apply now.
Role-play healthier communication styles.
Reinforce new behavior through daily reflection.
Assertively asking for help in a local community center or support
group.
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Figure 2. Expanded workflow combining genogram analysis and schema therapy
According to specialist observations, applying this
comprehensive approach enhances autonomy and
fosters a more flexible communication style in a new
society. Families of migrants participating in the
program report that after processing their genogram
and correcting negative narratives, their relationships
become less strained: extreme vigilance diminishes,
and
intergenerational
understanding
improves.
Simultaneously, individuals learn new behavioral
patterns that make it easier to express dissatisfaction
or seek assistance.
Exploring family histories where ancestors previously
attempted to weaken destructive patterns fosters
optimism: evidence that change is achievable serves as
a positive example for younger generations. Clients
note that such cases activate internal resilience by
reducing the sense of being "doomed" to hardship. This
effect is more pronounced when therapists help clients
integrate new beliefs into daily family rituals,
embedding them into the collective emotional
experience.
The next diagram illustrates the interaction between
the Inner Child and the Adult part of the personality
during the process of rewriting negative scripts. Figure
3 highlights two core components: the Inner Child,
carrying fears and past grievances, and the Adult part,
capable of providing conscious support. When clients
learn to engage with their childhood self without
judgment or suppression, the intensity of automatic
defense mechanisms decreases. The Adult part then
"permits" new behaviors, allowing individuals to move
beyond chronic self-sacrifice and anxious anticipation
of misfortune. According to therapists, this approach
strengthens positive self-perception and encourages
social initiative
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Figure 3. Interaction between the vulnerable child and the adult part
A clinical case of a 35-year-old migrant from Ukraine
illustrates the impact of EMS and intergenerational
trauma on psychological adaptation. The client
exhibited pronounced abandonment and defectiveness
schemas, which led to difficulties in relationships and
social isolation. The use of schema therapy and
genogram analysis helped her understand how her
family’s history of forced resettlement influenced her
emotional reactions. Over time, targeted therapeutic
interventions contributed to the development of
healthier behavioral models and improved self-esteem.
To enhance the psychological adaptation of migrants,
schema therapy can be utilized in both individual and
group settings. Group therapy is particularly beneficial
as it fosters a sense of belonging and shared
Vulnerable Child Mode (core
fears, loneliness, need for
validation)
The Vulnerable Child
seeks safety and
care
Adult Mode
(reflective,
supportive, able to
set boundaries)
Emotional release
Revised coping
strategies
The Adult Mode
evaluates
intergenerational beliefs,
providing compassion
and guidance
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experience, which is critical for migrants experiencing
social isolation. The development of psychoeducational
workshops aimed at recognizing and restructuring
maladaptive schemas can help migrants cope more
effectively with emotional difficulties.
The integration of schema therapy, genogram analysis,
and Inner Child techniques yields a multifaceted effect.
Individuals reassess their family history, recognize
inherited beliefs, and acquire tools for their
modification. In some cases, psychological blocks
previously perceived as personal weaknesses are
revealed to be the result of the emotional burden
carried by the entire family system. Reinterpreting
these beliefs enables clients to engage more actively in
their new communities, build trust in local institutions,
and establish more stable social connections.
Given the increasing number of migrants experiencing
psychological difficulties, rehabilitation centers can
greatly benefit from integrating schema therapy and
genogram analysis into their therapeutic programs.
These methods allow for the structured identification
of deep-seated emotional patterns and the disruption
of intergenerational trauma cycles. For example,
rehabilitation programs for Russian-speaking and
Ukrainian-speaking migrants may include group
sessions aimed at recognizing and transforming
maladaptive schemas while taking cultural factors into
account.
Russian-speaking migrants often face cultural and
language barriers, identity crises, and feelings of
isolation. EMS formed under the influence of collective
historical traumas (such as political repressions and
forced migration) can significantly affect their
emotional resilience and ability to integrate into a new
society. Therapy that addresses these cultural aspects
can substantially improve their psychological well-
being.
Thus, the study emphasizes the importance of
understanding EMS and intergenerational trauma for
providing effective psychological support to migrants.
By addressing these deep-rooted factors, therapists can
help clients develop healthier coping mechanisms and
enhance their capacity to adapt.
CONCLUSION
Thus, Russian-speaking migrants often face cultural and
linguistic barriers, an identity crisis, and feelings of
isolation. EMS formed under the influence of collective
historical traumas (such as political repression and
forced migration) can significantly impact their
emotional resilience and ability to integrate into a new
society. Therapy that takes these cultural aspects into
account can substantially improve their psychological
well-being.
The beliefs formed in previous generations,
rooted in past crises, significantly complicate the
adaptation process of forced migrants, confirming the
first research objective related to identifying
characteristic intergenerational patterns. The use of
genogram analysis reveals the causes and structure of
destructive beliefs, demonstrating the effectiveness of
this tool in recognizing inherited scripts, aligning with
the second objective. The integration of schema
therapy methods with Inner Child work facilitates
personality reorientation, reducing the impact of
traumatic family experiences and strengthening
psychological resilience, which directly corresponds to
the third objective. As a result, a comprehensive
approach that addresses both the family system and
individual experiences of those who have undergone
forced migration provides opportunities for gradually
overcoming destructive schemas and achieving more
successful integration into a new environment.
The conducted study lays the groundwork for further
development of therapy focused on intergenerational
themes and highlights the significance of combining
genogram analysis with schema therapy principles in
supporting individuals affected by forced displacement.
Understanding
the
impact
of
EMS
and
intergenerational trauma is a crucial aspect of providing
effective psychological support to migrants. Schema
therapy and genogram analysis offer valuable tools for
identifying and transforming maladaptive patterns,
ultimately contributing to better adaptation and
improved mental well-being. Integrating these
methods into rehabilitation centers and online
programs can significantly enhance the psychological
resilience of migrants facing cultural and emotional
challenges.
In the future, it is important to investigate the
effectiveness of online psychoeducational programs in
working with EMS among migrants. Given the
accessibility of digital platforms, online interventions
may serve as an additional resource for individuals
experiencing adaptation difficulties. The development
of structured courses focused on recognizing schemas,
processing trauma, and regulating emotions could
enhance the quality of psychological support for
migrants worldwide.
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