Psychology In Seattle Podcast Mental Health Hot Takes #2
Nov 17, 2025
Dr. Kirk Honda dives into intriguing listener hot takes about mental health. He explores how intergenerational trauma influences post-communist regions and critiques the cultural perceptions around patriarchy and emotional expression. The discussion also touches on the complexities of transference in therapy and the often-overlooked spectrum of catatonia. Kirk evaluates the implications of attachment theory online, the societal role of psychologists, and the therapeutic potential of spirituality. He weighs the necessity of emergency psychiatric holds and reflects on modern life's impact on mental health.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Long Shadows Of Historical Trauma
- Intergenerational trauma from war and oppressive regimes can shape personality and behavior across generations.
- Kirk notes Eastern European post-communist populations show downstream effects like fearful-avoidance and other adaptations.
Culture Rewards Toughness Over Vulnerability
- Cultural systems like patriarchy valorize toughness and stigmatize vulnerability, shaping which emotions are socially acceptable.
- Kirk connects this to politics and media responses that punish emotional expression, especially in men and marginalized groups.
Explain Transference Early When Identified
- Educate clients about transference once you identify it to reduce confusion and improve therapy progress.
- Kirk explains he assesses for transference and then explains the phenomenon to clients when clinically appropriate.
