The Psychological impact of Poverty with Dr.Katriona O Sullivan
Aug 30, 2023
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Dr. Katriona O Sullivan, psychologist specializing in poverty's impact on development and education for marginalized people, discusses poverty's effects on the human brain, education in Ireland, and trauma's complexities. The podcast also explores personal growth through writing, unconventional defense mechanisms, and excitement for 'Equalizer III' and TV daddies.
The impact of poverty and trauma on the human brain and the importance of access to education for marginalized individuals.
The need for systemic changes in the education system to address inequality and provide equal opportunities for all.
The journey of healing and self-compassion, and the importance of understanding the influence of circumstances on choices.
Advocacy for addressing poverty, abuse, and neglect, challenging societal prejudices, and transforming the education system for equal opportunities.
Deep dives
Dr. Katrina O'Sullivan's Journey from Poverty to Academia
Dr. Katrina O'Sullivan, a psychologist and educator, shares her personal experience of growing up in poverty and overcoming significant challenges to obtain a doctorate in Trinity College. She discusses the impacts of poverty and trauma on the human brain and the importance of access to education for marginalized individuals. Dr. O'Sullivan emphasizes the need for systemic changes in the education system to address inequality and provide equal opportunities for all.
The Power of Personal Experience in Academia
Dr. O'Sullivan's practical expertise in psychology is filtered through the lens of her lived experience. She strives to make academic information accessible to everyone by speaking about psychology in a human and inclusive manner. By sharing her memoir, 'Poor', she aims to challenge societal stigmas and shed light on the impacts of poverty and marginalization on individuals and communities.
The Internal Struggle with Self-Compassion
Dr. O'Sullivan reflects on her journey of healing and self-compassion, confronting the negative beliefs and internalized stigma she had about herself. Through therapy and writing her memoir, she has learned to embrace her past and understand that her choices were influenced by the circumstances and challenges she faced growing up.
Advocating for Change in the Education System
As an advocate, Dr. O'Sullivan uses her academic knowledge and personal experience to bring attention to the issues of poverty, abuse, and neglect that many individuals face. She challenges the prejudices and biases that exist within society and works towards transforming the education system to provide equal opportunities for all, regardless of socioeconomic background.
The Power of Vulnerability and Building Trust
Dr. Katrina emphasizes the importance of speaking openly about vulnerability and how it can establish trust with others. She shares personal experiences and highlights the privilege of being the person that others feel safe opening up to.
The Transformative Impact of Teachers
Dr. Katrina discusses the profound impact that teachers can have on their students. She shares personal stories of how certain teachers believed in her and changed her life. She also advocates for change in education, particularly in recruiting teachers based on their caring nature and addressing the inconsistencies in the quality of teaching across different schools.
Understanding Trauma and Its Long-lasting Effects
Dr. Katrina explains the biological and psychological effects of trauma. She highlights the importance of differentiating between difficult experiences and actual trauma. She also discusses the need for increased awareness and support for individuals who have experienced trauma, emphasizing the long-term consequences and the challenges of recovery.
Dr. Katriona O Sullivan is a psychologist whose work centers around the impact of poverty on a person's development. She works towards improving access to education for marginalized people. Her memoir "Poor" charts her journey as a child who grew up in extreme poverty to eventually studying in Trinity college
