Courses, Big Think

"The Body Keeps the Score" Author on Understanding Trauma

7 lectures, 43 min in all

In the past, “trauma” implied experiencing a psychological extreme that was the exception, rather than the norm. Psychiatrist and neuroscientist Bessel van der Kolk admits that he and his colleagues contributed to this misperception of trauma when, in the 1970s, they defined PTSD while working with Vietnam vets. Today, he says, they know trauma is sadly not unusual. It’s often said that you should be kind because everyone is fighting their own battle. Stress, emotions, memories — we’re all struggling with something on the inside. So how can we co-create more inclusive and compassionate spaces, especially for trauma survivors? According to van der Kolk, we can start by learning more about the neurology of trauma, its life-altering impacts, and potential methods for working through it. In this video lesson, van der Kolk explores the commonality of trauma and its effects. He discusses why trauma doesn’t mean there is something wrong that needs to be fixed — it means experiences and behaviors need to be understood. Learning objectives: Recognize the enduring effects of trauma. Explore various treatment techniques. Cultivate psychological safety for trauma survivors. Empower your colleagues. Regard others’ coping mechanisms with compassion.