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Adults Quote by Lloyd deMause

“The source of most human violence and suffering has been a hidden children's holocaust throughout history, whereby billions of innocent human beings have been routinely murdered, bound, starved, raped, mutilated, battered, and tortured by their parents and other caregivers, so that they grow up as…” quote by Lloyd deMause
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“The source of most human violence and suffering has been a hidden children's holocaust throughout history, whereby billions of innocent human beings have been routinely murdered, bound, starved, raped, mutilated, battered, and tortured by their parents and other caregivers, so that they grow up as emotionally crippled adults and become vengeful time bombs who periodically restage their early traumas in sacrificial rites called wars.”

Lloyd deMause

About This Quote

The quote claims that widespread child abuse throughout history creates traumatized adults who later perpetuate violence, suggesting a cycle of suffering rooted in early cruelty.

In simple terms: Child abuse breeds future violence and trauma.

Key Takeaway

Break cycles of abuse early.

Themes

violence trauma history psychology

Mood

somber urgent

Type

social psychological

When to use this quote

  • child welfare reforms
  • education
  • mental health services
  • community support

Key Concepts

intergenerational trauma social pathology human rights

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can societies prevent intergenerational trauma?
  • What role does healing play in stopping violence?
A Different Perspective

Not all violence stems from childhood trauma.

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