Trauma

The article found here on Developmental Trauma Disorder explains how many problems are started.

"Traumatized children develop a view of the world that incorporates their betrayal and hurt... They easily misinterpret events in the direction of a return of trauma and helplessness which causes them to be constantly on-guard, frightened and over-reactive."

Although the article discusses trauma in children, much of it can still be applied to my mother.