The Science of Intergenerational Trauma
Discover how trauma is passed down through generations and how early interventions can prevent harmful consequences. With Q&A.
Trauma does not always end with the person who experiences it. Recent cutting-edge studies show that extreme stress can leave biochemical ‘sticky notes’ on our DNA. These tiny epigenetic tweaks not only play a role in how our bodies respond to danger but also could be passed down to generations. When war, displacement, or abuse alters stress-response genes, a child can inherit a nervous system already tuned to hyper-vigilance, shaping lifelong health and behaviour.
In this talk, Dr Jeffrey DeMarco unpacks the science behind intergenerational trauma, showing why biology is not destiny. Drawing on fieldwork with families across seven countries, he explains how positive relationships, safe digital spaces, and evidence-based interventions can ‘rewrite’ these harmful patterns before they ripple onwards.
Doors open at 7pm, talk starts at 7.30pm - come down early to grab a good seat!
Follow us on IG @seedtalks
Speaker Bio:
Dr Jeffrey DeMarco is a Senior Technical Advisor for Protecting Children from Digital Harm at Save the Children UK. He is also a chartered forensic psychologist, frequently lectures on trauma at Middlesex University. His research and policy works bridge psychology with technology and child protection, where most recently, he led a nine-nation digital-resilience programme. He has spoken before the European Commission, Europol, and UNICEF on online harms, radicalisation, and the experience of trauma. His ideas have been featured in his TEDx RoyalHolloway talks “The Importance of Trust” and his podcast “Privacy Talks” (2025).
Testimonials from our guests
⭐ Great events, amazing speakers on important topics, would recommend! - Scott F
⭐ Expertly run, talks are always super informative and a lot of fun! Couldn’t recommend these enough! 5 star. - Owen S
⭐ Engaging talks on lots of enriching & inspiring topics. Completely recommend Seed Talks for anyone looking to learn something new in an accessible way! - Colette F
Discover how trauma is passed down through generations and how early interventions can prevent harmful consequences. With Q&A.
Trauma does not always end with the person who experiences it. Recent cutting-edge studies show that extreme stress can leave biochemical ‘sticky notes’ on our DNA. These tiny epigenetic tweaks not only play a role in how our bodies respond to danger but also could be passed down to generations. When war, displacement, or abuse alters stress-response genes, a child can inherit a nervous system already tuned to hyper-vigilance, shaping lifelong health and behaviour.
In this talk, Dr Jeffrey DeMarco unpacks the science behind intergenerational trauma, showing why biology is not destiny. Drawing on fieldwork with families across seven countries, he explains how positive relationships, safe digital spaces, and evidence-based interventions can ‘rewrite’ these harmful patterns before they ripple onwards.
Doors open at 7pm, talk starts at 7.30pm - come down early to grab a good seat!
Follow us on IG @seedtalks
Speaker Bio:
Dr Jeffrey DeMarco is a Senior Technical Advisor for Protecting Children from Digital Harm at Save the Children UK. He is also a chartered forensic psychologist, frequently lectures on trauma at Middlesex University. His research and policy works bridge psychology with technology and child protection, where most recently, he led a nine-nation digital-resilience programme. He has spoken before the European Commission, Europol, and UNICEF on online harms, radicalisation, and the experience of trauma. His ideas have been featured in his TEDx RoyalHolloway talks “The Importance of Trust” and his podcast “Privacy Talks” (2025).
Testimonials from our guests
⭐ Great events, amazing speakers on important topics, would recommend! - Scott F
⭐ Expertly run, talks are always super informative and a lot of fun! Couldn’t recommend these enough! 5 star. - Owen S
⭐ Engaging talks on lots of enriching & inspiring topics. Completely recommend Seed Talks for anyone looking to learn something new in an accessible way! - Colette F
Good to know
Highlights
- 2 hours 30 minutes
- In person
Refund Policy
Location
The Roper Theatre
Hayesfield School
Upper Oldfield Park Campus Bath BA2 3LA
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