Childhood Trauma and Memory-Based Mechanisms of Resilience

Abstract

Childhood trauma, particularly abuse, disrupts normal development and leaves long-lasting effects on memory processing, emotional regulation and psychosocial functioning. Despite this, many survivors demonstrate resilience, recovering and even thriving through adaptive neurobiological and psychological mechanisms. This review examines resilience in trauma survivors with a specific focus on how traumatic memories are encoded, retrieved and required. We explore alterations in memory-related brain regions such as the amygdala, hippocampus and prefrontal cortex and discuss how resilience modulates these effects through processes like reconsolidation, emotional distancing and meaning-making. Future directions using trauma and memory-based interventions are highlighted as promising approaches for long-term recovery. Understanding trauma memory as both a source of vulnerability and a target for adaptive change offers a nuanced framework for supporting survivors of early adversity.