Here's what I know from my own experience. My mind "punishes" me by replicating the abusive situation, and there really is a cruel intention there---however, the DEEPER, TRUER intention is to help me by giving me a sense of control. That's the defense mechanism that got me through the initial abuse, helped my soul to survive it.

Then when you become an adult or in some way get more consciousness of the patterns in your life, the healing work begins. You can trust that your dream self is showing you these images because it feels you are ready to come to terms with them. First you have to come to terms with what is happening right in this moment. It may be a lot of stuff hanging over from childhood. The dream is asking you to acknowledge what's true in this moment, without fear or aversion. That is a big healing step in and of itself. Your dreams will show you further steps as you move along.

Mike