<![CDATA[Intergenerational trauma can influence how individuals develop and maintain interpersonal relationships in adulthood. However, limited research has explored how individuals subjectively experience and interpret their relationships within the context of family trauma. This study aimed to understand the interpersonal relationship dynamics of emerging adults living with the legacy of intergenerational trauma. A qualitative design using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis was employed. Three participants aged 21 to 22 years with histories of physical, verbal, and/or emotional abuse within their families were interviewed using a semi-structured format. Four themes emerged from the analysis: emotional insecurity in family relationships, avoidant emotional regulation, trust issues and insecure attachment, and a strong need for emotional security from trusted figures. The findings also revealed an awareness–action gap, in which participants recognized the impact of trauma and expressed a desire to break the cycle, yet continued to struggle with changing emotional responses and interpersonal behaviors. These findings highlight the importance of trauma-informed interventions to support survivors in developing healthier and more adaptive relationships. These findings also suggest practical implications for the provision of accessible trauma-informed counseling services, particularly within university mental health settings, to facilitate emerging adults' awareness of intergenerational relational patterns and encourage the development of more secure and adaptive interpersonal functioning.]]>
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