Discover the intriguing connection between regression, lying, and stealing, all examined through the lens of neurobiology. Delve into state-dependent functioning to understand how a child's nervous system influences their behavior. The discussion highlights the complexities of time perception and its effects on decision-making and impulse control. Additionally, learn about new resources and a professional training program designed for those facing complex behavioral challenges, fostering safety and emotional regulation for children.
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State-Dependent Brain Functioning
Dr. Bruce Perry's state-dependent functioning theory explains how brain function shifts based on internal states from calm to terror.
As stress increases, higher brain functions decrease and more reactive brain parts dominate behavior.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Librarian Joy and Resource Access
Robyn Gobbel shares joy over her eggplant-colored library cart filled with helpful books.
This cart allows her constant access to resources like Dr. Perry's "What Happened to You".
insights INSIGHT
Stress Causes Regression Behaviors
As stress increases, brain function regresses to younger developmental states, causing behaviors like baby talk.
Children under stress show immature play and reduced impulse control reflecting regressed brain function.
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Through deeply personal conversations, Oprah Winfrey and Dr. Bruce Perry explore how traumatic experiences in early life shape behavior and identity. The book emphasizes the importance of understanding and addressing past traumas to clear a path for future healing and resilience. Winfrey shares stories from her own past, while Dr. Perry provides scientific and emotional insights, highlighting the need to ask 'What happened to you?' rather than 'What’s wrong with you?' to foster a deeper understanding of human behavior and promote healing[1][3][5].
Why do kids sometimes - or a lot of the time! - suddenly act much younger…or sneakier?! In this episode, we use Dr. Bruce Perry’s concept of state-dependent functioning to reframe some of the baffling behaviors as signs of stress, not signs of defiance.
If you want to dive deeper into this topic, join us over in The Club. In June 2025, we’re having a masterclass all about behaviors and state dependent functioning- complete with a brand-new illustrated resource. If you’re hearing this episode in the future, the masterclass is stored in our on-demand video library and can still be accessed!
In this episode, you’ll learn:
Why regression and baby talk are symptoms of a nervous system in distress
How lying and stealing are driven by survival states
What it means when your child’s sense of time collapses and they can’t think about future consequences
The Baffling Behavior Show {Parenting after Trauma} 
