Longing for a home that no longer exists: Re-membering and re-storying socio-political trauma

Teresa's paper Sociopolitical Trauma: Forgetting, Remembering, and Group Analysis argues that sociopolitical trauma inevitably leads to fracture. Moving away, forgetting, or simply burying what is too painful disconnects the present from the past, making it difficult for subsequent generations to develop a coherent narrative of their history and identity.

The dialogue explores the complexities of intergenerational trauma in the aftermath of sociopolitical trauma, seeking ways to re-story the experiences across generations.

The talk is 45min, followed by a reflective median group process for 75min.

About Teresa von Sommeruga: 

Teresa’s long name always begs questions about her origins. Her father originated in Middle Europe and her mother in Britain, while Teresa grew up in Aotearoa New Zealand, a bicultural country. She now lives in the UK and works internationally. She was once told that with her mixed background, she seemed to have the whole world in her DNA and perhaps explains her enthusiasm for group work.

Teresa’s professional background mirrors her diverse personal background. She is an architect, systemic family therapist, group analyst and rebirther but applying large group thinking in everyday situations is her passion. Focusing on the long-term effects of socio-political trauma. She has written and published extensively about all aspects of her work, which focuses on the process of encouraging dialogue in organizations and society.