The London Lecture Series Trauma, Emotion, and Memory; Presented by James Dawes
Dec 6, 2024
James Dawes, a Professor at Macalester College, delves into the intricate ties between trauma, memory, and post-traumatic growth. He unpacks how memory can catalyze personal growth following adversity, drawing from historical and cultural contexts. The conversation explores societal shifts in understanding trauma, from individual experiences to collective narratives, and scrutinizes the evolving definitions shaped by cultural perceptions. Dawes also discusses the genetic impacts of trauma and challenges within mental health treatment, revealing the complexities of recognizing and addressing these experiences.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Evolution of Trauma Concept
- Trauma evolved from being seen as a rare, individual, acute event to a common, collective, chronic condition.
- PTSD is now one of the most diagnosed conditions in the US, reflecting this broadening understanding of trauma.
Ancient Views on Trauma
- Ancient societies lacked the modern concept of trauma, often interpreting traumatic reactions as valor or divine influence.
- Cultural narratives shaped how trauma was understood and whether it was recognized as a disorder.
Nostalgia as Early Trauma Concept
- Nostalgia was an early medical term for psychological distress among soldiers and enslaved Africans.
- Symptoms resembled trauma but were often interpreted through physical or environmental causes rather than psychological trauma.