Eleanor Strathmore
Elanor Strathmore is a dedicated and passionate student currently working towards her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. Her academic journey began at Spokane Falls Community College, where she earned her Associate of Arts in Psychology. Eleanor’s commitment to academic excellence has earned her a place on the dean’s list, and she is a member of the honors society. Eleanor’s focus lies in the intricate study of intergenerational trauma and the effects of service on the descendants of combat veterans.
Eleanor’s dedication to her field is further exemplified by her role as a research assistant at Eastern Washington University’s Psychology department, working closely with Dr. Tim Lower. This opportunity allows her to delve deeper into her research interests and contribute meaningfully to the academic community.
Looking ahead, Eleanor envisions herself pursuing a Ph.D. in Psychology, with a specific goal of advancing research in the realm of intergenerational trauma. Her ambition is to make significant contributions to the understanding of how trauma can reverberate through generations, impacting individuals and communities.
Beyond her academic aspirations, Eleanor’s long-term goal is to become a professor and researcher at a university. By combining her passion for teaching with her commitment to groundbreaking research, she aims to inspire the next generation of psychologists and contribute to the evolving field of intergenerational trauma studies. Eleanor completed her 2024 McNair Summer Research Internship alongside her EWU faculty research mentor, Dr. Shanna Davis. Eleanor’s research was presented August 15, 2024 at the Raúl’s research was presented August 15, 2024 at the McNair Summer Research Symposium.
2024 EWU Faculty Mentor: Dr. Shanna Davis
Research Title: “Do PTSD Symptoms Move Intergenerationally Through Families?”
Abstract: This research project explores the presence of PTSD symptoms in the descendants of veterans as potential indicators of intergenerational trauma within military families. The main hypothesis posits a significant association between PTSD symptoms in descendants and the transmission of trauma across generations. Employing a multi-generational survey method. The study will assess
PTSD symptoms among three generations in both military and non-military families. Behavioral markers of stress will be examined including depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, and substance abuse.
The anticipated outcomes are that descendants of military families will show higher levels of PTSD symptoms when compared to their civilian counterparts, attributed to the intricate dynamics of vicarious PTSD transferred within military families. This study hopes to create an understanding of trauma transmission across generations and to identify mitigating factors that could slow its effects, thereby improving mental health outcomes for impacted families. By looking at the severity and prevalence of PTSD-related symptoms such as depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and suicidal ideation, the research hopes to generate insights that could inform clinical practices and interventions aimed at addressing and alleviating intergenerational trauma.