Publication Title
Symmetry-Culture and Science
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
5-25-2026
Subjects
Symmetry, trauma, psychosocial adaptation, complexity, order
Abstract
The aim of this two-part paper is to discuss the concept of symmetry and its derivatives, symmetry breaking and asymmetry, and the role they assume in elucidating the structure and processes that underlie psychosocial adaptation to traumatic experiences. To achieve this aim, in Part I, first, a cursory review of symmetry is undertaken as it applies to physics, including conservation laws, the forces of nature, and leading theories of nature. Second, the paper addresses how symmetry is perceived in biology and medicine, including symmetry within biochemical and genetic structures, the human body, and the onset of disease processes. Third, the place of symmetry in the psychological and behavioral domains is explored, including symmetry’s relationship with sensory-affective perceptions, personality attributes, attitudinal and behavioral compatibilities, and mental health correlates. Fourth, the place of symmetry within both the interpersonal and externa-personal environments is explored. Finally, the role symmetry plays in several personality theories (Freudian, Jungian, Lewinian) and psychological models (chaos and complexity models, positive disintegration and reintegration) are explored.
Rights
Copyright (c) 2026 The Authors Creative Commons License This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Locate the Document
https://doi.org/10.26830/symmetry_2026_1_007
DOI
10.26830/symmetry_2026_1_007
Persistent Identifier
https://archives.pdx.edu/ds/psu/44718
Publisher
Eötvös Loránd University
Citation Details
Livneh, H. (2026). Symmetry and psychosocial adaptation to trauma, illness and disability part I: views from physics, medicine and psychology. Symmetry: Culture and Science, 37(1), 7–47.