Leaders Emerging From Collective Trauma: Journeys of Transgenerational Healing
Book Details
- Publisher : Karnac Books
- Published : 2026
- Cover : Paperback
- Pages : 220
- Category :
Forthcoming - Category 2 :
Trauma and Violence - Catalogue No : 98521
- ISBN 13 : 9781800134386
- ISBN 10 : 180013438X
Reviews and Endorsements
The stories in this outstanding book teach us to pay respect to the past of our families, communities, and societies. It is both saddening and enlightening to understand the personal and societal impact of collective traumas on today’s life and leadership. Meaningful reflection and commemoration not only acknowledge the life and pain of our ancestors, but also guide our leadership in the uncertain present and future world.
Thom de Graaf, Vice-president, Council of State and former Deputy Prime Minister, The Netherlands
The Nobel Prize-winning author William Faulkner once wrote, “The past is never dead. It’s not even past.” Lara Tcholakian, Erik van de Loo, and their associates appear to have taken this insight deeply to heart in their book. They demonstrate how unresolved traumas are carried forward – often unconsciously – from one generation to the next, shaping leadership, institutions, and social dynamics in subtle yet powerful ways. The authors argue convincingly that genuine societal healing cannot occur until these deep-seated traumas are consciously acknowledged and worked through. Given the profound relevance of this subject for all of us, this book goes beyond analysis by offering also practical pathways for addressing these collective traumas. Hence, it stands as a compelling resource for readers interested in mental health, leadership, and the psychological dynamics that govern society.
Manfred F. R. Kets de Vries, Distinguished Clinical Professor of Leadership Development and Organizational Change, INSEAD
Whilst the worldwide political and economic systems are cracking, leaders have to act in a highly conflicted environment. This very timely book can help them to understand the challenges of when old wounds are activated in new situations. Both editors bring a sound knowledge of the often unconscious and hidden dynamics of collective trauma, and how it plays out in societies and organisations. They have brought together an exquisite assembly of international authors, who demonstrate with numerous vignettes the potential impact leaders can have in dealing with and healing collective trauma.
Regine Scholz, PhD, psychologist, group analyst, specialist in trauma treatment, and Training Director, International Dialogue Initiative
Leaders Emerging From Trauma comes at a critical time, when the world needs leaders who can enable their organisations to navigate the increasing levels of uncertainty and change, whether driven by geopolitical or technological landscapes. Leaders who develop the discipline and skill to self-reflect and explore their personal and societal legacies, including individual and collective trauma, will be best positioned to support their teams and organisations to navigate the challenges ahead with clarity and resilience.
Loren I. Shuster, Chief People Officer, the LEGO Group

