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Serious Inquiries Only

SIO393: Dr. Alan Smerbeck on Trigger Warnings

Oct 17, 2023
Dr. Alan Smerbeck, researcher on trigger warnings, joins the host to discuss the current research around trigger warnings, exploring their benefits and drawbacks. They also address the debate on handling sensitive topics in the classroom and the potential negative effects of trigger warnings on individuals without anxiety disorders. The use of trigger warnings and content notes is examined, considering their appropriateness and the philosophical nature of the question.
01:03:44
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Episode guests

Alan Smerbeck

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Trigger warnings offer relief to individuals with PTSD but can contribute to the worsening of symptoms if applied too broadly.
  • While trigger warnings can be helpful for those with anxiety disorders, they may increase anticipatory anxiety and reinforce the belief that distress is unbearable.

Deep dives

Understanding the Psychology of Trigger Warnings

Trigger warnings are designed to allow individuals with PTSD to opt out of content that could induce severe anxiety or panic attacks. This is because people with PTSD can experience a strong emotional and physical response when exposed to triggers. These triggers can be things that were paired with an actual danger during the traumatic event, causing them to react as if they are in danger again. Trigger warnings offer the benefit of avoiding panic attacks at inconvenient times, but avoidance can also contribute to the worsening of PTSD symptoms.

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