What type of trauma results from repeated or prolonged exposure to highly stressful events, often in contexts of inescapable threat, leading to pervasive psychological and physiological effects?
The type of trauma described is Complex Trauma, often referred to as C-PTSD (Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder). This distinct form of trauma results from chronic, prolonged, and repetitive exposure to highly stressful events, particularly those occurring in contexts of inescapable threat where the individual has little to no perceived ability to escape or seek help. Unlike single-incident trauma, which stems from a discrete event, complex trauma involves a cumulative series of traumatic experiences over an extended period, leading to more pervasive and profound psychological and physiological effects.