PODCAST:Things Fell Apart
TITLE:S2. Ep 6: A Hierarchy of Trauma
DATE:2024-01-09 00:00:00
URL:
MODEL:gpt-4-gizmo
The episode titled "A Hierarchy of Trauma" from Season 2 of the BBC Radio 4 podcast "Things Fell Apart," released on January 9, 2024, examines the evolution and impact of trauma awareness, particularly in relation to free speech debates on college campuses and in workplaces.
The episode begins with a historical perspective on trauma, focusing on the work of psychiatrist Bessel van der Kolk, who played a key role in recognizing and naming post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in the 1970s. Van der Kolk observed PTSD in Vietnam War veterans and later identified similar symptoms in people who experienced childhood trauma, especially sexual abuse. His pioneering work led to a broader understanding of trauma and its inclusion in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) in 1980.
The concept of trauma then expanded to include a wider range of experiences, such as those of firefighters, police officers, health workers, and even children diagnosed with cancer and their parents. The public's awareness of trauma significantly increased following events like 9/11 and the rise of movements like Me Too and Black Lives Matter, which discussed intergenerational trauma.
Van der Kolk's book "The Body Keeps the Score," published in 2014, became a bestseller during the COVID-19 lockdown, reflecting a growing public interest in trauma. The episode highlights how the broadening of the trauma concept has led to its application in various contexts, including college campuses and workplaces.
The podcast discusses how debates over free speech on college campuses, traditionally confined to academic settings, began to impact workplaces. It features stories of individuals affected by the expanding definition of trauma, including Lucia Martinez-Valdivia, a professor with diagnosed PTSD, who faced protests from students over course content. The students argued that their trauma was just as significant as Lucia's, creating a contentious environment.
Another case study is Samantha Jones, a student at Syracuse University, who faced disciplinary action for threatening the mental health of a fellow student. This incident illustrates how accusations of emotional harm have become a serious issue in academic settings.
The episode also presents the story of investigative reporter Lee Fang, who faced backlash from colleagues at The Intercept for his coverage of violent incidents during protests following George Floyd's murder. Fang's experience highlights how the language of trauma and accusations of causing harm have permeated journalism and led to conflicts within newsrooms.
The podcast concludes with a reflection on how the increased focus on trauma and emotional harm has influenced debates over free speech and the handling of controversial topics. It suggests that while increased trauma awareness has had positive impacts, its application in cultural and political debates can sometimes stifle nuanced discussion and curiosity.
