Survivors of Complex Trauma and Coping With Ambiguity
Early trauma can compromise the ability to cope with the unknown.
Posted April 20, 2025 | Reviewed by Abigail Fagan
Survivors of complex developmental trauma , or complex trauma, can have a compromised resiliency regarding coping with ambiguity associated with the unknown. The trauma can result from various forms of abuse, neglect, high levels of transiency, living in a war zone, the physical or mental illness of a parent, addiction , or the stress generated from financial challenges. Being able to respond to the unknown effectively is a prerequisite for generating meaning and living what truly matters to us. Examples include love, freedom, responsibility, and authenticity . Driven by a hijacked amygdala, the traumatized person can experience a dysregulated nervous system , demanding attention to survival and safety. Hence, much of life is lived in a state of fight, flight, freeze, or merger. Trauma tends to generate two ways to respond to the unknown.
For many adults who had a chronically traumatized childhood , uncertainty is a condition to avoid at all costs, suggesting that some eminent danger lies waiting, in hiding. Ambiguity is now defined as simply some cloaked peril. As tolerance for the unknown wanes, the need for immediate information increases. In a Psychology Today post, Dr. David Ludden points out that in a confused world people seek answers that comfort us and fit into our world view, answers that offer a sense of control and security as well as an opportunity to maintain a positive self-image aligning ourselves with those who passionately claim to possess the truth.
Here are some examples of literalizing ambiguity.
Lost in the Air of Ideas
Unlike literalizers, this group of trauma survivors takes up residency in ambiguity. They comfort and protect themselves by wandering from one set of abstract concepts to another. However, similar to literalizers, they cannot truly live up to the meaning they strive to create.
Supporting Repair and Healing
Making peace with the unknown for trauma survivors calls for patience, honesty, compassion, and receiving viable support.
We need not be taken hostage by an experience of early trauma. It means gradually stepping away from surviving to thriving. Your life is waiting for you.
Share this post Facebook Bluesky Linkedin Email
There was a problem adding your email address. Please try again.
By submitting your information you agree to the Psychology Today Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy
Paul Dunion, Ed.D., has been in private practice as a psychotherapist and consultant for the past 45 years and has published eight books.
Get the help you need from a therapist near you–a FREE service from Psychology Today.
This article is part of the Bringwise Psychology Journal — daily insights on human behavior, mental health, and personal growth.