Originally Posted by Nox noctis Umbra

What defines who we are, really? most would say it is our past, the trials, the difficulties, the pleasures. Psycologists say that those with violent pasts, or more appropriately violent childhoods are often doomed to a violent life, culminating in either life in and out of the penal system, or a very violent death, often by police. But are they right? I think about this alot. I wonder if I would be the person I am today without the childhood of beatings. Would I be more successful, or more the failure? Would I have been in more trouble, or more of a play it safe person? Would I be more prone to anger and aggression, or be timid and shy? According to the experts I am classified as "one of the rare few who attempt to break the cycle" but are the rare few really so rare? From a statistical stand point by this point in my life, thanks to the past, and genetic disposition, I should be heavily involved in drugs, and alcohol, and be very prone to violent, and agressive actions towards those who seemingly provoke it. Nature vs. Nurture. Or is it the past that makes me keep my anger, my rage in check? Can this be any more confounding?