Do We Really Have Free Will? The Science of Epigenetics + Intergenerational Trauma
Is free will an illusion? Many of us like to believe that it isn’t – that we’re in full control of our lives and shape our own destinies. However, when we start to explore trauma, we often notice recurring patterns of suffering or pain that echo not only through our own lives but across generations. These patterns often come from unprocessed trauma responses that were originally meant to protect us (or our ancestors) but became ingrained over time. Even long after the original danger has passed, these intergenerational patterns can continue to influence how we feel, act, and relate to others, often without our conscious awareness.
When we begin to explore how our lives might be shaped by the experiences and wounds of those who came before us, we can gain powerful clarity and awareness around why we see ourselves (and the world) the way we do. It’s fascinating how events that happened generations ago can leave imprints on us today, carried forward through patterns of survival and adaptation.
At the same time, we can also discover incredible strengths and sources of resilience within our lineage—inner resources that can help support us on our healing path. This process is deeply connected to the science of epigenetics, which shows us how our environment and experiences –including trauma—can influence how our genes function and even be passed down through generations. By becoming aware of these inherited patterns, we can start to release what no longer serves us, reclaim our strengths, and move toward greater freedom and authenticity.
For example, imagine a child growing up in a violent or unpredictable home. To survive, they might live in a constant state of fight-or-flight. Over time, this prolonged stress can lead to epigenetic changes—chemical markers that turn certain genes on or off in response to their environment. Even as an adult, they might have a heightened response to everyday stress, feel easily overwhelmed, or develop anxiety or panic. These changes can also influence how their future children respond to stress.
It's important to note that epigenetics doesn’t just involve trauma. Growing up in a supportive, nurturing environment can also influence gene expression in ways that strengthen emotional regulation and resilience.
The good news is that becoming aware of these patterns gives us a chance to gently heal and reshape them. Through trauma-informed approaches like somatic therapy, EMDR, or mindfulness, we can begin to regulate our nervous systems, shift these inherited expressions, and break the cycle—creating more capacity for freedom and choice for ourselves and future generations. While we may never have complete free will, we can move from living in automatic reaction to living with more intention and presence — and that, in itself, is a powerful form of liberation.
