What If We Taught Empathy as Seriously as We Teach Mathematics?

Imagine a school where children aren’t only taught how to solve mathematical problems, read books and pass examinations. Imagine a school where they are also taught how to understand another person’s feelings. How to recognise fear behind anger. How to notice when somebody is withdrawing. How to listen without immediately judging. How to disagree without… Read More What If We Taught Empathy as Seriously as We Teach Mathematics?

What can happen in the abuser’s brain during abusive behaviour?

From a neuroscience perspective, abuse involves changes in the brain and nervous system of both the person being abused and, potentially, the person carrying out the abuse—but we have to be careful not to suggest that there is a single “abuser brain.” People become abusive through complex interactions among learning, personality, emotion regulation, beliefs, environment and… Read More What can happen in the abuser’s brain during abusive behaviour?

How an Abuser Can Make You Feel Like Nothing

One of the most difficult things to explain about abuse is how quickly it can change a person’s sense of themselves. It can happen in minutes. A person who was confident, capable and independent can suddenly find themselves frightened, confused, humiliated and desperately trying to make sense of what is happening. It isn’t because they… Read More How an Abuser Can Make You Feel Like Nothing

Main treatments for trauma

There are several evidence-based approaches to treating trauma. The most appropriate treatment depends on the type of trauma, whether the danger has ended, the person’s symptoms, and whether the trauma was single-event or prolonged/complex. Main treatments for trauma Helps identify and change trauma-related thoughts, beliefs and behaviours. Often used for PTSD, anxiety and avoidance. Uses bilateral… Read More Main treatments for trauma

Trauma is not defined only by what happened

Trauma is not defined only by what happened; it also involves how the nervous system and mind respond to what happened. Different types of trauma Results from a single, overwhelming event. Examples: assault, serious accident, sudden bereavement, natural disaster, violent attack. Develops from repeated or ongoing exposure to threatening or harmful experiences. Examples: prolonged domestic… Read More Trauma is not defined only by what happened

Different types of abuse

Different types of abuse Hitting, kicking, punching or slapping Pushing, shaking or throwing someone Choking or strangulation Burning or causing injuries Using objects or weapons to hurt or threaten someone Preventing someone from leaving or physically restraining them Constant criticism, humiliation or insults Belittling someone or making them feel worthless Deliberately causing fear or distress… Read More Different types of abuse