We all have many inner 'selves' ie parent/child/ critical parent/ etc etc, if there has been abuse we will have an inner protector and an abuser (that doesn't necessarily mean we go on to abuse) but that inner part will act out how it was for us when we were abused. We may find ourselves acting in ways we don't like, it is a way of defence maybe or a way of reaching out the only way we know how. With therapy it is possible to become balanced and whole so that all of these parts are in harmony with each other. I agree totally with what others are saying, it is good to be in touch with our inner child in a healthy way just as much as being adult .

As a survivor of childhood abuse I now embrace my child in a healthy and loving way and have learned how to soothe her (myself) if triggered. I hope this helps a little. Kerry xxxx