TITLE:
Tracing Generational Choices across Matrilineal Lineages: A Qualitative Exploration of the Intersections among Choice, Trauma Awareness, and Transformation
AUTHORS:
Jasmine Johnson
KEYWORDS:
Generational Choices, Matrilineal Lineage, Patterns of Behavior, Generational Trauma Awareness, Generational Transformation
JOURNAL NAME:
Psychology,
Vol.17 No.10,
October
15,
2026
ABSTRACT: This qualitative descriptive phenomenological study explored how women across five multigenerational matrilineal family lineages interpreted the influence of generational choices on patterns of behavior, trauma awareness, and intergenerational transformation. Existing literature has examined intergenerational trauma, resilience, and family legacy; however, limited research has explored how women consciously interpret and reshape inherited patterns through intentional decision-making. A demographic survey was initially completed by 180 respondents; after three respondents requested exclusion of their data, the final survey screening cohort consisted of 177 participants, of whom 16 participated in multigenerational, semi-structured interviews. The 16 interview participants represented five matrilineal family groups; four groups included three generations, and one group included four generations. Thematic analysis identified six recurring themes: intergenerational female strength and leadership; faith as a source of identity and resilience; educational aspiration and perseverance; relational hardship and interpersonal struggle; caregiving and familial connection; and breaking generational patterns through intentional change. Findings suggested that participants perceived women within their family lineages as playing a significant role in preserving, reinterpreting, and transforming family legacies through resilience, faith, relational awareness, and intentional choices.