The disconnection from love more often grows out of not feeling fully embraced or accepted in our family of origin — whether through neglect, lack of attunement, or outright abuse. Not feeling securely held in the arms of love, we fall into the grip of fear. Inadequate love and nurturance directly impact the child's sensitive nervous system, resulting in a certain degree of shock or trauma that will affect us for the rest of our life.
— John Welwood, Perfect Love, Imperfect Relationships