Abstract
This study examined the influence of family-of-origin childhood trauma on romantic relationships among adults in institutions of higher learning in Eldoret City, Kenya, focusing on resilience as a protective factor. Guided by Framo's Family of Origin Theory and Bowlby's Attachment Theory, the study employed a convergent parallel mixed-methods design with 368 adults completing questionnaires and 10 support officers participating in interviews. Findings revealed that childhood trauma significantly negatively influenced romantic relationships (β = -0.30, p < .001), making it the second strongest predictor after attachment styles. Emotional abuse (M = 2.58), physical punishment (M = 2.48), and family violence (M = 2.45) were low, while displacement and instability were moderate (M = 2.62). Resilience emerged as the highest-rated dimension (M = 3.85, SD = 0.78), indicating supportive relationships helped participants cope. Qualitative findings converged, revealing that unresolved trauma manifested as low self-esteem, normalisation of abuse, anxiety, and insecurity, while supportive relationships served as protective factors. The study concludes that childhood trauma significantly undermines romantic relationship quality, but resilience through supportive relationships can buffer these negative effects. Recommendations include trauma-informed counselling, strengthening social support networks, and family-based prevention programs.