Troubled Childhood, Triumphant Life

Book excerpt: Why do some individuals transcend the turbulence of troubled childhoods as they transition to adulthood, while others are doomed to replicate the past and remain mired in the dark memories of their pasts? James Krehbiel, Ed.S., LPC, CCBT, explores, explains and answers this pivotal question in Troubled Childhood, Triumphant Life. While many people enjoyed happy, robust youths filled with love and support, for others childhood memories are riddled with painful recollections of hurt, neglect and shame. Repressed feelings centering around a traumatic upbringing are habitually veiled beneath a cloak of what krehbiel calls the "magical illusions" that children cling to as they grow up. As adults, they still seek to gain the approval and validation of their absent and/or abusive parents. Gleaned from fifteen years of working with children and adults, Krehbiel lays out a clear guide for a new path by showing: Steps to leave behind the illusions of childhood for those who have struggled from the aftermath of traumatic rearing Ways to adapt positively to adulthood in the wake of parental abuse Approaches to reframe unhappy childhood histories and bring closure in the present. Methods to explore the techniques of cognitive behavioral therapy in combating such stress-related mental ailments as obsessive-compulsive disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder related to childhood abuse Strategies abused individuals can use to break the cycle of repeating destructive processes with the next generation Troubled Childhood, Triumphant Life will help adults find hope and healing as they strengthen their resolves to make life-altering decisions, leaving the past behind them and opening the door to happy, fulfilling futures. Book jacket.