A person who experiences repetitive, long-term captivity or abuse can develop a disorder known as complex post-traumatic stress disorder, or C-PTSD. This condition is usually caused by a series of traumas that occur over a long period of time, rather than by a single traumatic event. Being repeatedly treated in an abusive way over a period of months or years can result in serious psychological harm. Childhood Trauma One of the major causes of C-PTSD is childhood trauma, particularly childhood sexual abuse. A child who is sexually abused, particularly when victimized by more than one relative or family friend, begins to see the world as a difficult, unsafe place. There is no hope of escape or getting out of danger. The victim has absolutely no control over the situation and continues to feel unsafe even when the danger is gone. Repetitive Abuse Complex post-traumatic stress disorder is caused by repetitive abuse, which could be physical, emotional or sexual. The victim may have been kidnapped or could be in a situation where he or she is forced into slavery or torture. The victim may also be subjected to inconsistent treatment, and may not be able to predict when the abuse is...