Writer Larissa Phillips discusses trauma discourse and recovery, including her own experience with rape in the 90s. They touch on #metoo, personal responsibility, and adult literacy. The conversation delves into societal perceptions around trauma recovery and the challenges survivors face in seeking justice.
Importance of due process in addressing rape accusations.
Emphasizing resilience and self-created programs to overcome trauma.
Critiquing oversimplification of 'teach men not to rape' slogan in preventing sexual assault.
Deep dives
Rape Response and Due Process
The podcast episode discusses a writer's response to an essay about rape and due process. The writer, Larissa, critiques the lack of due process surrounding rape allegations and shares her own story of being raped in Italy. She highlights the importance of due process in addressing accusations of sexual assault.
Writing About Trauma and Recovery
Larissa reflects on her essay-writing process about her rape experience. She delves into the details of her recovery journey, emphasizing the importance of resilience and self-created programs to overcome trauma. She contrasts her approach with current discussions around trauma that lean towards labeling individuals as victims.
The Teach Men Not to Rape Debate
A discussion around the 'teach men not to rape' concept ensues, critiquing its oversimplification of a complex issue. The podcast challenges the efficacy of such a slogan and delves into the nuances of sexual assault involving psychopaths and repeat offenders who may not respond to such messaging.
Parenting and Toughness
The impact of parenting styles on resilience and toughness is explored through Larissa's experience with her children. The conversation navigates their upbringing in a rural setting, where discussions on resilience and self-determination were prevalent, shaping their views on tough issues like politics, trauma, and consent.
Perceptions of Trauma and Processing Ambiguous Experiences
The podcast delves into the different perceptions of trauma, highlighting a conversation about how individuals may find certain forms of trauma less traumatic than others. The discussion specifically reflects on a scenario where navigating ambiguous situations, such as precarious sexual encounters, can lead to self-blame and internal struggles. In contrast, experiencing a more direct and violent event may sometimes be processed more easily, devoid of self-blame. This insight sheds light on the complexities of processing trauma and the varying psychological impacts it can have on individuals.
Evolution of Therapy and Societal Attitudes
The conversation extends to the evolving landscape of therapy and societal attitudes towards mental health and self-improvement. There is a critical examination of traditional therapy approaches, raising questions about their efficacy and the need for alternative methods that focus on achievements and personal growth. Additionally, the discussion touches on generational shifts in perspectives, highlighting a potential swing towards a more rational and balanced approach to addressing mental health challenges. This segment emphasizes the importance of adapting therapeutic practices to better suit individuals' needs and overall well-being.
This week, the girls/women are joined by writer Larissa Phillips, and the three discuss her recent essay in which she recounts her violent rape in the early 90s. Larissa shares her thoughts on the helpfulness of “trauma” discourse on recovery, the #metoo era, and the tension between personal responsibility and public trust.
They also touch on Larissa’s work in adult literacy, a subject Sarah finds especially interesting, as she’s still learning how to read.
