Explain how childhood affects people's responses to love and romantic relationships in later years, according to Dr. Firestone. Cite evidence from the text in your answer.

People who have had a traumatic childhood usually develop a mental defence which protects them emotionally from these traumas. This act of defence can be continued into later life even when it is not needed and this is why some people can react badly to being in romantic relationships.

"People maintain the defensive posture that they formed early in life."