“Trauma doesn’t occur in a vacuum; there will always be a context,” King writes in his book. “When it happens within your family, it’s the worst — you likely then have no
sanctuary to which you can escape and seek protection; it’s simply a part of your life.”
Born into a profoundly disturbed family, King experienced various forms of trauma, including sexual and physical abuse, abandonment, and the prevalence of addiction among family members. These early experiences left indelible marks on his psyche, influencing not only his personal life but also his professional trajectory.
He grew up to become a leader in international education, a licensed psychologist and professor of psychology, and eventually, the president of Antioch University Los Angeles. He has dedicated his life to deepening his understanding of trauma and aiding those with similar lived experiences.
Now, in his deeply personal new book, Trauma is a Thief, King invites readers into his traumatic childhood, connecting the dots with as much candor, compassion and impartiality as he can summon to offer his own story as a “case study” for anyone else whose lives have been impacted by trauma. “Whatever its form or context, trauma is invariably a thief. It steals something essential from you that you can never fully recover,” King writes.
Memoir-like but woven with professional insights from King’s own training and research as well as the wisdom of Carl Jung, Trauma is a Thief delves deeply into how King survived, the price he paid to survive, and how his trauma continues to live inside and inform him even today. “I have battled mightily to be here today to share this tale with you — in hopes that if you or someone you love has suffered their own trauma, my tale might render some comfort, serve as a resource, or help you feel seen and understood,” he writes.
King’s new book is designed for fellow survivors of trauma, those who love them, and those who study and work with them.