Uncapping Family Wisdom: Recognizing, Treating, and Reconciling Transgenerational Dysfunction

Uncapping Family Wisdom: Recognizing, Treating, and Reconciling Transgenerational Dysfunction describes how the patterns that prevent forward progress in families can be changed. Because patterns travel through the language of the family, and language defines reality for these speakers, a framework is needed, so that linguistic legacies that affect development can be understood and overcome. Many families have inherited a speaking pattern which distorts reality for the family. The adults in these families, through their inherited language patterns, do not know how to instill in their offspring the basic conceptual information and affirmations considered necessary for optimal moral, cognitive, social, and psychological development. Unfortunately,in many cases, the language the children hear from significant others largely determines the potential for development in these children. The children hear and learn defective language patterns, ensuring further dysfunction in succeeding generations. Because of the emotional pain incurred in the interactions in dysfunctional families,these families become "trauma organized." (Betovim) The pattern of behavior that causes trauma is called "transgenerational dysfunction." Uncapping Family Wisdom provides intervention into these complex problems.

Dr. Pate has maintained a private practice for 22 years. She has consulted in psychiatric hospitals, family court, and treatment centers for family domestic violence. She sees a broad spectrum of clients with diverse backgrounds and treatment needs. Her expertise is in generational patterns that interrupt human development in adults and children.