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Yoga and Mindfulness: An Effective Approach for Trauma Recovery
The synergy between Yoga and Mindfulness has emerged as an invaluable approach to healing from trauma, encompassing physical and mental well-being. Yoga, a practice revered for centuries, has evolved into "trauma-informed yoga," tailored to aid trauma survivors by prioritizing safety, breath awareness, and embodiment over traditional correction-based methods. This approach emphasizes modified movements, steering away from complexity towards fostering an environment conducive to healing through safety, predictability, and repetitive patterns. (Emerson et al., 2009)
David Emerson's advocacy for trauma-sensitive yoga highlights the need to understand the scientific basis behind this approach as it reduces “autonomic sympathetic activation, muscle tension, and blood pressure, improves neuroendocrine and hormonal activity, decreases physical symptoms and emotional distress, and increases the quality of life” (Emerson et al., 2009) The Yoga Service Council's guidelines further underscore the importance of creating safe environments and employing invitational language, refraining from assumptions while focusing on strengths-based teaching models for post-traumatic growth. (Rousseau, 2023) Depending on the individual’s needs, Spence, the author of “ Trauma-informed yoga: A toolbox for therapists: 47 practices to calm, balance, and restore the nervous system”, divided yoga practices into four categories: Calming practices, balancing practices, energizing practices, visualizations, and meditations. (Spence, 2021). It is also essential to understand that yoga is not one-size-fits-all, as mentioned in the book by Spence. The practice looks different for everyone every day, depending on one’s needs at that time. Complementing yoga's effectiveness, mindfulness has surfaced as a potent tool in trauma recovery. Originating from the work of Dr. Jon Kabat-Zinn, mindfulness involves non-judgmental observation of physical and emotional experiences to foster clarity and diminish self-criticism. (Rousseau, 2023) This practice aids in reducing negative thinking patterns and reconstructing neural structures affected by trauma.
Mindfulness, adaptable to diverse practices such as focused breathing and guided meditation, accommodates individuals at different proficiency levels, fostering gradual integration. Resources available on platforms like Mindful offer comprehensive support, catering to individuals' varied needs during their mindfulness journey. (Rousseau, 2023)
The transformative potential of mindfulness in trauma recovery lies in its cultivation of non-judgmental awareness. By encouraging individuals to observe sensations and emotions without criticism, mindfulness facilitates mental reformation, empowering individuals to acknowledge experiences without letting them define their present state.
Scientifically, mindfulness profoundly impacts brain restructuring, facilitating rewiring of thought patterns disrupted by trauma. This cognitive restructuring aids in symptom alleviation while contributing to long-term healing and resilience-building.
The combination of trauma-informed yoga and mindfulness presents an empowering avenue for trauma survivors, fostering healing, resilience, and the rediscovery of autonomy in life. This cohesive practice offers a transformative journey toward holistic recovery from past adversities. However, relying solely on yoga as a therapeutic intervention may have limitations due to the diversity of individual needs and varying levels of trauma experienced. While this approach is an effective treatment, its efficacy might be enhanced by integrating complementary methods tailored to individual requirements.
References
Emerson, David, et al. “Trauma-Sensitive Yoga: Principles, Practice, and Research.” International Journal of Yoga Therapy, vol. 19, no. 1, 1 Oct. 2009, pp. 123–128, https://doi.org/10.17761/ijyt.19.1.h6476p8084l22160.
Rousseau, D. 2023. Module 4. Boston University.
Spence, J. (2021). Trauma-informed yoga: A toolbox for therapists: 47 practices to calm, balance, and restore the nervous system. PESI.
Building Resilience for Posttraumatic Growth
Gayle Demarest -Blog Post- METCJ720 -Trauma and Crisis Intervention
We often hear about people who experience adverse and traumatic experiences and who become eventually diagnosed with posttraumatic stress disorder, PTSD, from either acute short-term trauma or chronic trauma, which lasts over a long period and can cause significant physical and mental illness (Rousseau, 2023). We hear less about people who resiliently recover from their experiences and thrive into posttraumatic growth.
Resilience is a buffer to becoming diagnosed with PTSD and allows us to adapt successfully in the face of adversity and stress (Horn et al., 2016). One can innately have resiliency or build resiliency to protect oneself from traumatic events. Resilience can also be taught to PTSD patients, potentially moving them into posttraumatic growth. Several advances in the study of trauma and resilience have shown a greater understanding of how individual strengths, protective factors, and the adaptational responses of human beings can build our resilience to overcome adversity (Horn et al., 2016). An essential step for all trauma survivors, according to Van der Kolk, is the importance of treatment provided early on, preferably right after the trauma. If too much time passes, the traumatized person or group can become emotionally numb and only able to relate to their traumatic memories. This delay creates a setback to treatment and could steer someone toward a diagnosis of PTSD rather than posttraumatic growth (van der Kolk, 2014).
Certain protective factors have been identified in recent studies of children exposed to the extreme traumas of war (forced displacement, bombings, and rapes), including solid social support systems, religious beliefs that show meaning in suffering, and positive bonding with a caregiver. (Horn et al., 2016). Individuals who can overcome a moderate stressor, like the death of a family member, may be able to be resilient to later stressors (Horn et al., 2016). This phenomenon is known as stress inoculation. Additionally, if an individual has control and agency over a stressor, it is less likely to become unmanageable (Horn et al., 2016). Cognitive reappraisal is an emotion-regulating strategy often used by resilient individuals; this skill allows one to monitor negative thoughts and replace them with positive ones (Horn et al., 2016).
Rousseau states that the outcome of exposure to a traumatic event is more dependent on the inner workings of the person who experienced it than the event itself (Rousseau, 2023). In the TED talk by Jane McGonigal, she shares that some individuals use traumatic events as a springboard to live a better life than before and that we do not have to suffer. Strengths that can lead to posttraumatic growth include mental, physical, social, and emotional resilience. If an individual can work on these areas within themselves, they are likely to experience healing from their trauma and regain a meaningful life (Rousseau, 2023). Judith Herman, author of Trauma and Recovery, points out that only through connection with others can survivors leave behind their vulnerabilities and regain their sense of self (Rousseau, 2023). In B.U. student Brogan Gerhart’s film review of “Boys and Men Healing: From Child Sexual Abuse” (2023), she writes about the widely unspoken issue of sexual abuse against men and boys and the lack of resources they have available to them for healing. She states that most of the survivors in the film found healing and resilience in connecting with other male survivors of child sexual abuse (Gerhart, B. film review, 2023).
Resiliency comes in many forms, all essential to the healing process, and if we commit to working on ourselves to improve those skills and characteristics within, we can all move toward healing and posttraumatic growth, redefining our lives and making new memories, leaving behind the traumatic ones. Building resilience is there for all of us, and there are multiple roads to get there.
References
Gerhart, B. (2023). Review: Boys and Men Healing: From Child Sexual Abuse [Film] directed by Barbini, 2011. Boston University, MET CJ720 Trauma and Crisis Intervention. Accessed December 5, 2023. https://video.alexanderstreet.com/watch/boys-and-men-healing-from-child-sexual-abuse-2.
Horn, S. R., Charney, D. S., & Feder, A. (2016). Understanding resilience: New approaches for preventing and treating PTSD. Experimental neurology, 284, 119-132.
Rousseau, D. (2023). Trauma and Crisis Intervention. Module 1. MET CJ720. Boston University.
Van der Kolk, B.A. (2014). The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma. Viking Penguin.
Can Ending Child Abuse Reduce Incarceration Rates?
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration declared that more than two-thirds of children reported at least one traumatic event by age 16 (SAMHA, 2023). With staggering numbers like those, many of those reading this entry today would have suffered some traumatic event in their lives, more specifically during their childhood. So, how do those events shape who we are as we enter adulthood?
Child abuse is often linked to adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), which can have long-lasting effects on a person's mental health, behavior, and overall well-being. The CDC stated that ACEs are linked to chronic health problems, mental illness, and substance use problems in adolescence and adulthood. ACEs can also negatively impact education, job opportunities, and earning potential. However, ACEs can be prevented (CDC, 2023). But how?
According to the CDC, around 60% of adults have at least one traumatic childhood experience, compared to 97% of inmates (Villegas, 2021). Almost all inmates would agree that they suffered some traumatic experience during their childhood. The article from Spectrum News goes on to say that incarcerated people have an average of at least five traumatic childhood experiences (Villegas, 2021).
How often do we think about the history of those who are incarcerated? Maybe during their trial or subsequent potential release. Nevertheless, once incarcerated, is their childhood discussed, and is their trauma assessed? I think this may not be at the top of our to-do list to analyze the background of those incarcerated, but for those who have, it has been eye-opening.
Van Der Kolk brought up that if we worked on ending child abuse in the United States, we would reduce the overall rate of depression, alcoholism, suicide, drug use, and domestic violence, as well as incarceration rates (Van Der Kolk, 2014). Van Der Kolk’s book, The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma, is an essential read for understanding trauma. In addition, his take on child abuse resonated with me.
Why does one of the most, if not the most, developed countries in the world have the highest incarceration rates? What can we, as a society, moreover, a country, do to stop this? The CDC says creating and sustaining safe, stable, nurturing relationships and environments for all children and families can prevent ACEs and help all children reach their full potential (CDC, 2023).
Aside from that, it seems we need to work inside our prison systems as well. Trauma-informed care within correction facilities will help lower recidivism rates and criminal behavior.
References
Rousseau, D. (2023). Module 2 Lecture Notes: Introduction to trauma. Boston University.
SAMHA, (2023). Understanding Child Trauma. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.
Van der Kolk, B. A. (2014). The body keeps the score: Brain, mind, and body in the healing of trauma. Viking.
Villegas, C., (2021). Prison project teaches inmates about childhood trauma and its effects. Spectrum News 1.
Exercise as a Form of Therapy
We all know exercise is an important part of our daily routine. While many use it as a way to stay fit and healthy, some also use it as an outlet for trauma, specifically PTSD. Our nervous systems are incredibly delicate, so when we experience trauma, it can throw off the whole body. This triggers anxiety, depression, panic, sleep disorders and many more symptoms. The Trauma Institute and Child Trauma Institute explain how different movement techniques help people gain confidence and overcome their trauma (Lederman & Greenwald, 2023). In addition to different movement techniques overcoming trauma barriers, running and walking even 30 minutes a day can lower stress levels and improve quality of life (Lederman & Greenwald, 2023). Other types of healing exercise include yoga, where not only is the person exercising but they are also practicing mindfulness and self-control (Rousseau, 2023). Group exercise can also help people overcome trauma. Van der Kolk’s The Body Keeps the Score explores this citing “...the third group engaged in a routine exercise program…after three months the participants reported that they felt happier and healthier” (2014).
Of course, there is a line that needs to be drawn in order for the exercise to not become an addiction. This can often happen to victims of trauma, where they supplement feeling depressed or anxious for exercise (Van der Kolk, 2014). Numbing, as it is often referred to, can have a negative impact on mental health just as much as suffering from trauma. Victims have reported emotional restrictions after a traumatic event, thus needing to supplement with the sort of happiness that exercise can give (Litz & Gray, 2002). Being able to identify when the exercise addiction is causing the victim to become emotionally numb is key to overcoming PTSD. This is why regulation and speaking with a mental health professional is important for the patient.
Many forms of exercise have helped victims work through trauma. It is a great self-care technique and when done in groups, can lead to an emotional release and/or relationship building.
References:
Lederman, I., Greenwald, R. 2023. Exercise to support trauma healing. Trauma Institute & Child Trauma Institute. https://www.ticti.org/exercise/
Litz, B. T., & Gray, M. J. (2002). Emotional numbing in posttraumatic stress disorder: current and future research directions. The Australian and New Zealand journal of psychiatry, 36(2), 198–204. https://doi.org/10.1046/j.1440-1614.2002.01002.x
M.D., B.V.D. K. (2014). The Body Keeps the Score. Penguin US. https://bookshelf.vitalsource.com/books/9781101608302
Rousseau, D. 2023. Module 2– Childhood trauma. Boston University. https://learn.bu.edu/bbcswebdav/pid-12438218-dt-content-rid-91015208_1/courses/23fallmetcj720_o2/course/module2/allpages.htm
Neuroplasticity–Rewiring Your Brain Through Mindfulness
It took me many years to learn that trauma not only clouds our judgment, it controls and shapes our judgment on a molecular level. Trauma has the ability to affect synapse communication between neurons, thus inhibiting our ability to “think clearly.” Neuroplasticity is defined as the "capacity for our brain cells to change in response to our behavior" (Eichinger, 2018).
It is the brain’s ability to reorganize itself by forming new connections and adjusting the strength of existing ones.
I’ve experienced firsthand how the lingering of trauma can infiltrate the way you think and act. Luckily, our brains are a powerful tool and neuroplasticity allows us to take that power back. Our experiences throughout life contribute to the establishment of enduring neural connections in the brain, and these connections have the potential to influence and shape the overall quality of our lives.
Promoting neuroplasticity comes in various forms, and it is important to remember that one size does not fit all. Implementing neuroplasticity can come from psychotherapy, eye movement desensitization, trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, and mindfulness based interventions.
Mindfulness can be defined as “a mental state characterized by full attention to internal and external experiences as they occur in the present moment” (Gotink, Meijboom, Vernooij, Smits, & Hunink 2016). Mindfulness involves focusing attention on the present moment, this focused attention induces structural changes in the brain that may be linked to enhanced neuroplasticity. Mindfulness encourages the integration of different brain regions and networks, contributing to the flexibility and adaptability of neural connections. Mindfulness training often involves practices that enhance cognitive control, the process by which goals or plans influence our behavior, such as attention regulation and emotion regulation. In summary, mindfulness encourages individuals to be aware of bodily sensations and emotions. The ability to tune into your body and mind will allow you to make decisions that support the life you want to create and live.
Before you begin any mindfulness practice, I encourage you to begin with breathwork. Allow your body to sit still for a moment, pay attention to the sound of your breath, let the world stop turning for a second. This allows your nervous system to decompress and focus on the present moment. What does your body need? What is your mind telling you? After determining what you need, you can create intentions to guide your mindfulness practice. What are your goals for the short and long term experience of this practice? It is vital to distinguish your past needs from the present, work towards your goals not away from them. Take note of self-destructive tendencies you might have, or discover ways to implement a moment of mindfulness everyday. Even 5 minutes a day of breathwork, journaling, meditating, or stretching can go a long way.
The relationship between neuroplasticity and mindfulness creates a transformative pathway towards healing and self-discovery. As we navigate trauma, it becomes clear that our brains hold an extraordinary capacity to change. Neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to reorganize itself, offers hope, reminding us that we are not confined by the synaptic imprints of our past. Mindfulness invites us to embrace the present moment with a focused and intentional awareness, guiding us towards a clearer understanding of our needs and aspirations.
It is crucial to recognize the individualized nature of our experiences and choose practice that resonates with our unique selves. The simplicity of a few minutes dedicated to mindfulness practices each day becomes a profound investment in our mental well-being. Change is a gradual process that demands patience and consistent effort. Neuroplasticity, like any skill, thrives on regular and repeated practice. Each intentional breath and moment of self-awareness contributes to the ongoing rewiring of our brains, empowering us to reclaim power of our thoughts and actions. The capacity to shape our neural connections is a testament to the inherent strength of the human mind–a strength that with dedication and mindfulness, can guide us towards a life of greater clarity, purpose, and fulfillment.
Sources:
Eichinger, R.W. (2018). Should we get aboard the brain train? Consulting Psychology Journal:
Practice and Research, 70:1, 89-94.
Gotink, R.A., Meijboom, R., Vernooij, M.W., Smits, M., & Hunink, M.G.M. (2016). 8-week
mindfulness based stress reduction induces brain changes similar to traditional long-term
meditation practice- A systemic review. Brain and Cognition,108, 32-41.
Parent Centered Treatment Impacting Children’s Trauma
During the semester, we have studied many interesting facets about trauma and specifically methods aimed towards treating trauma in children and adults. For example, in trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, exposure therapy, and EMDR, a therapist works directly with the victim-survivor to help reduce their symptoms and triggers that may be affecting their behaviors and day-to-day living. For the most part, these treatments targeted the afflicted individual and did not explore treatments with a wider scope that included family members and, perhaps, members of the community. A few of the materials we looked at did suggest a wider-scope approach.
As part of the documentary film review assignment, I watched a documentary titled “Trauma & Dissociation in Children I: Behavioral Impacts” by Fran Waters. This film touched on the difficulties trauma-survivors face and suggested an even better form of treatment for young victim-survivors is to work with their parents. I learned how treating parents and other guardians may be a more effective approach than working with children directly to reduce their symptoms. What was not explored in the materials we looked at, however, was the willingness of parents and other guardians as well as others who are trying to help them, such as social workers, to actually undergo these forms of treatment. One of the interesting questions raised surrounding this topic is how practical these solutions are. Would the majority of parents be willing to undergo this treatment for the sake of their children’s well-being? Alternatively, if such treatment was imposed upon them by either the court system or some other administrator, could this form of therapy still be as beneficial given the resistance it would likely face? It would be interesting to further explore these more practical aspects of the treatment.
Waters, F. (n.d.). Trauma & Dissociation in Children I: Behavioral Impacts. Kanopy. Retrieved from https://www.kanopy.com/en/product/trauma-dissociation-children-i-behavioral-impacts?vp=bu.
Do police drink too much because they are police, or does trauma play a role?
It seems widely assumed that alcoholism is a work related risk factor in policing. I have understood this assumption to be true for years. In fact, consistent with social acceptance theory I may have accepted a higher amount of drinking because it was presumed rather than the assumed “need” related to stress. I found an article in Policing: An International Journal of Police Strategies & Management that turns all of that on its head.
Work in the 70’s and 80’s established that police officers were heavy drinkers. We adopt expertise from studies which support a confirmation bias which “helps us influence people and social structures so that they come to match our beliefs about them (Peters, 2022, p. 1351). In that way when we see results that we like, we do not question them as we would ones we do not like (Allen, 2011). However, in review the word “established” comes into question. The studies cited only sampled very few police services or took the opinion of police administrators (Lindsay, et. al., 2008). Their opinions, much like mine, may have not been based on any real findings. In research this would be called a sampling error. In life it is simply noticing one person more often than the other people who don’t have the same exceptionality. Finding one drunk in an office someone worked in a few years ago is not reflective of a problem, but is certainly a memory that stands out. This is the first problem. We expand out the idea that all police are alcoholics because of an erroneous sample which confirms the research.
There is also the idea of a police subculture. Imagining all police are the same is tantamount to any other –ism. All blacks are… All Jews are… All police are… John Cochran and Max Bromley discovered that there is no “police subculture” which would be reflective of the assumption. Rather, there are groups within the profession where like-minded people cluster (2003). So, the first sampling error being broadcast out to the profession can be understood when it is inaccurately believed that all police are the same. This is the second problem in believing there is widespread alcoholism in policing because all police are the same.
Then comes the stress of the job. Workplace conditions can be broken down into work alienation and work stress. Work alienation is reflective of work where employees are not enriched, or feel their work is not of value. Work stress is related to dangerous conditions, conflict with supervisors, or low pay (Frone, 1999). In this model policing is certainly a stressful job. However, the link between stress and drinking is “highly debatable, and research has consistently demonstrated that tress can have both positive and negative effects on human beings” (Lindsay, et. al., 2008, p. 598.). The same paper goes on to say that there is no evidence that policing is more stressful than other lines of work (p. 598). This is the third problem with the belief. Perhaps a misunderstanding of what police do causes an assumption of unimaginable stress.
When we see that there is a link between ACE scores and alcoholism (Van Der Kolk, 2014) I consider whether alcohol use increases due to trauma. Police are more susceptible to experience a critical incident than the population (Rousseau, 2023). So, there may be a link here in the prevalence of officers who have A) experienced a critical incident, and B) adopted alcohol use as an unhealthy coping mechanism. If we add to that the ideas of fitting in discussed in Ordinary Men (Browning, 2017) we may have coexisting risk factors. However, Owen Gallupe found that fitting in was related to low level alcohol use, while coping with depression was related to high level use (2012).
All of that to say that it appears alcoholism as a norm in policing is a myth. Lindsay et. al. describe the link between police work and alcohol use with words like, “very tenuous”, “utterly rejected”, and “no reason to think that alcohol abuse correlates with such work” (p.598). Once we are able reject the link between the JOB and alcoholism we may be able to move towards linking TRAUMA to alcohol use and move towards caring for trauma exposed individuals.
Allen, M. (2011) Theory‐led confirmation bias and experimental persona. Research in Science & Technological Education, 29:1, 107-127, DOI: 10.1080/02635143.2010.539973
Browning, C. (2014). Ordinary Men: Reserve Battalion 101 and the Final Solution in Poland. HarperCollins.
Cochran, J.K. and Bromley, M.L. (2003), The myth(?) of the police sub‐culture, Policing: An International Journal, Vol. 26 No. 1, pp. 88-117. https://doi.org/10.1108/13639510310460314
Frone M.R. Work stress and alcohol use. Alcohol Res Health. 1999;23(4):284-91. PMID: 10890825; PMCID: PMC6760381.
Gallupe, O. (2014) Social status versus coping as motivation for alcohol use. Journal of Youth Studies, 17:1, 79-91, DOI: 10.1080/13676261.2013.793792
Lindsay, V., Taylor, W., & Shelley, K. (2008). Alcohol and the police: an empirical examination of widely-held assumption. Policing: An International Journal of Police Strategies & Management, 31(4), 596-609.
Peters, U. (2022). What Is the Function of Confirmation Bias?. Erkenn 87, 1351–1376. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10670-020-00252-1
Rousseau, D. (2023). Trauma and Crisis Intervention Module 6. Retrieved November 30, 2023, from Blackboard [url].
Van der Kolk, B. A. (2014). The body keeps the score: Brain, mind, and body in the healing of trauma. Viking.
Animal-Assisted Interventions – #Gus
Trauma exists in all facets of life. It has been around since the beginning of time, and no one is immune to its immense pressure. Over the years researchers have sought ways in which to lessen, “cure”, or assist those that have inevitably fallen victim to it. One of the ways in which researchers and the like have found success in dealing with trauma is with canines (K-9). The use of K-9s for assisting with human calamities has been around since ancient Greeks documented the use of domesticated animals for therapeutic purposes. In 1860, Florence Nightingale also wrote about the use of animals in reducing anxiety in humans. Documented research has shown that animal and human interactions can have a positive impact both physiologically and psychologically. A study in 2003, found a 37% reduction in fear and an 18% reduction in anxiety. (Barker et al, 2003) Interaction between humans and dogs, can induce oxytocin release in both humans and dogs and generate effects such as decreased cortisol levels and blood pressure. (Odendaal and Meintjes, 2003; Miller et al., 2009; Handlin et al., 2011) Anxiety levels can be extremely high among people who are on the spectrum, and the presence of a service dog has been shown to reduce cortisol levels by up to 10%, which is statistically significant. (Rousseau, 2023) As a result of these positive results conducted through research, it is no wonder that K-9s have begun to be utilized in response to critical incidents.
Animal-assisted interventions (AAI) began to take hold in the 1980s. AAI is a broad term used to describe the utilization of various species of animals in diverse manners beneficial to humans. (Hunt, 2022) Animal Assisted Crisis Response (AACR) has begun to be used for such critical incidents as natural disasters, terrorism, mass shootings, and line-of-duty deaths. AACR employs highly trained and certified teams of K-9s and handlers who provide comfort, stress relief, emotional support, and crisis intervention services to people affected by crises and disasters in complex, unpredictable environments surrounding traumatic events. (National Standards Committee for Animal-Assisted Crisis Response, 2010) AACR Teams have been established in conjunction with the International Critical Incident Stress Foundation (ICISF). AACR seeks to combat the acute stress that arises from a traumatic incident. Decreasing the stress response can help alleviate the potential for ongoing mental health issues. Decreasing stress relies on balancing the autonomic nervous system out of its sympathetic-activation priority. (Rousseau, 2023)
AACR teams deploy in response to a wide range of potential trauma-inducing situations. In New Jersey, an organization that has successfully combined both Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) and AACR is Crisis Response Canines (CRC). Critical Incident Stress Management is a comprehensive, integrated, systematic, and multi-component approach to managing traumatic incidents. (CRC’s mission is to provide strength, comfort, and emotional support to individuals, families, communities, and first responders experiencing traumatic emotions in the aftermath of critical incidents. CRC seeks to provide post-incident stress support thus aiding with the recovery process for those impacted by distressing and shocking events or those countering the effects of cumulative events. (Hunt, 2022) The K-9s and handlers go through extensive training and certifications in order to join the team. AACR teams can be used, for example, to establish rapport, build therapeutic bridges, normalize the experience, and act as a calming agent or as a catalyst for physical movement. (Greenbaum, 2006)
In March of 2022, the Rhode Island State Police joined this movement, and Gus, the Goldendoodle, was welcomed into the ranks with open arms. Gus is handled by a member of our Special Victim’s Unit. The Special Victim’s Unit investigates sexual assault, abuse, and other sensitive cases involving children, developmentally disabled, and older residents, as well as domestic violence, missing children, sexual exploitation of children, and human trafficking cases. Gus has provided a necessary distraction from the rigors of police work, for me and the victims we encounter. Gus is a sweet and gentle boy whose handler I worked closely with when he was at the Lincoln Woods Barracks. Gus brings smiles when they are tough to come by and I have inadvertently taught him some bad habits. I must remember that he is a K-9 working dog, but sometimes this is a difficult task. #IloveGus
Barker S. B., Pandurangi A. K., Best A. M. (2003). Effects of animal-assisted therapy on patients' anxiety, fear, and depression before ECT. J. ECT 19, 38–44. 10.1097/00124509-200303000-00008
Chapter 4: Critical Incident Stress Debriefing, International Critical Incident Stress Foundation.
Greenbaum SD. (2006) Introduction to working with Animal Assisted Crisis Response animal handler teams. Int J Emerg Ment Health.2006 Winter;8(1):49-63. PMID: 16573252.
Handlin, L., Hydbring-Sandberg, E., Nilsson, A., Ejdebäck, M., Jansson, A., and Uvnäs-Moberg, K. (2011). Short-term interaction between dogs and their owners – effects on oxytocin, cortisol, insulin and heart rate - an exploratory study. Anthrozoos 24, 301–315. doi: 10.2752/175303711X13045914865385
Hunt, J. D. (2022). Animal-assisted interventions- A brief guide. ICISF. https://icisf.org/animal-assisted-interventions-a-brief-guide/
Miller, S. C., Kennedy, C., DeVoe, D., Hickey, M., Nelson, T., and Kogan, L. (2009). An examination of changes in oxytocin levels in men and women before and after interaction with a bonded dog. Anthrozoös 22, 31–42. doi: 10.2752/175303708X390455
National Standards Committee for Animal-Assisted Crisis Response. (2010). AnimalAssisted Crisis Response National Standards. Retrieved from http://hopeaacr.org/ wp-content/uploads/2010/03/AACRNationalStandards7Mar10.pdf
Odendaal, J. S., and Meintjes, R. A. (2003). Neurophysiological correlates of affiliative behaviour between humans and dogs. Vet. J. 165, 296–301. doi: 10.1016/S1090-0233(02)00237-X
Rousseau, Danielle, PhD, LMHC. (2023). Module 3: Neurobiology of Trauma. MET CJ 720: Trauma and Crisis Intervention. Boston University MET Summer 2. https://learn.bu.edu/bbcswebdav/courses/23sum2metcj720so2/course/module3/allpages.htm
The Relationship Between Trauma and Incarceration
When discussing trauma in the incarcerated population I was struck by the stories of what these people had endured. I wanted to dive a little deeper on the connection between incarceration and trauma to give a more well-rounded image of what incarcerated individuals experience.
To begin it has been found that PTSD occurs at significantly higher rates in incarcerated individuals compared to the general population (Hodges-Pietryka, 2022). There is about a 300% increase between the two populations with PTSD symptoms occurring in 4% of a studies community population and 48% of the studies incarcerated population (Hodges-Pietryka, 2022). Incarcerated individuals are also found to have more likely experienced trauma in childhood that non-incarcerated populations (Hodges-Pietryka, 2022). While in prisons though, assaults and other traumatic interactions are found to be underreported but contribute greatly to the increased percentage of people developing or experiencing PTSD symptoms (Hodges-Pietryka, 2022). This does not end after incarceration though. Many of these individuals struggle with reentry into their communities. While in prison they are likely very bottled up and unable to process or share the thoughts and feelings they are having. This can contribute to more negative outcomes due to unmanaged symptoms which is one of many factors that increases the likelihood of reoffending (Morrison, 2022). The process of reentry is heavily reliant on family/friends, service providers, and community members (Morrison, 2022). Symptoms of untreated trauma such as insomnia, hypervigilance, hyper-reactivity, difficulty with attention and concentration, and paranoia can greatly strain these relationships and hinder the process further (Morrison, 2022).
These issues are a significant factor in why incarceration is often cyclical. We need to shift to a more trauma informed approach to both incarceration and reentry if we want a solid way to tackle the relationship between trauma and incarceration. Many of these prisoners do not have a robust support system so I would suggest improving things on the inside of the system first as many problems arise from the culture within prisons. I strongly believe that there is a “light at the end of the tunnel” but we won’t get there unless work is put in to be more informed on how the system and trauma play a role in the damage being done.
References:
Hodges-Pietryka, M. (2022). Stories of Revictimization During Incarceration: The Returning Citizen's Experience (Order No. 29319933). Available from ProQuest Dissertations & Theses Global. (2707688376). https://ezproxy.bu.edu/login?qurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.proquest.com%2Fdissertations-theses%2Fstories-revictimization-during-incarceration%2Fdocview%2F2707688376%2Fse-2%3Faccountid%3D9676
Morrison, M. (2022). Trauma Exposures across the Life Course for Individuals Who Experience
Incarceration (Order No. 29325001). Available from ProQuest Dissertations & Theses Global. (2705437979). https://ezproxy.bu.edu/login?qurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.proquest.com%2Fdissertations-theses%2Ftrauma-exposures-across-life-course-individuals%2Fdocview%2F2705437979%2Fse-2%3Faccountid%3D9676
The Brain is a Cultural Organ: The Importance of Attunement
Humans, like many other mammals, are social creatures that lead socially complex lives and are highly attuned to the emotions of others in their tribe. Researcher Stephen Porges expanded several of Darwin’s theories and explained why humans unconsciously recognize subtle nonverbal cues to include shifts in facial expressions, tones, body language, etc (Van der Kolk, 2014). This innate ability allows us to feel relaxed in one situation and nervous in another without really being able to explain why we have these gut feelings. Porges also explained that a person’s ability to deal with trauma is directly related to the vagus nervous system which includes the ventral vagal complex (VCC). This set of nerves, located in the brain stem, tells a person that their natural reaction when someone smiles at them on the street is to smile back and prompts them to nod along during a conversation they are following (Van der Kolk, 2014). Additionally, the VVC is responsible for sending unconscious signals to the body telling it to lower the heart’s rate and feel at ease since it has determined the situation as safe. The VVC is also responsible for regulating the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems. The more synchronized these systems are, the more connected an individual likely will be to their emotions and subsequently to their community or tribe (Van der Kolk, 2014).
When we are infants our VVC is still developing and highly susceptible to our interactions with others around us. The way in which parents are attuned to their babies’ needs directly impacts how effective they will be at teaching their babies how to regulate emotions. When parents, especially mothers, are naturally attuned of their babies’ needs babies learn their caregivers are reliable which brings them pleasure, security, and builds the foundation for their future social behavior (Van der Kolk, 2014). When a mother and baby share emotional attunement, they are often automatically in sync on a physical level. Mothers soothe babies when they cry to teach them how to handle higher levels of stress hormones, parents rock their infants when they cry in the night to make them feel safe, and dads make them clean and dry when they soil their diapers to show them discomfort is temporary (Van der Kolk, 2014). The baby learns that they can depend on caregivers which allows them to build “the foundation of self-regulation, self-soothing, and self-nurture (Van der Kolk, p. 175. 2014).”
From the moment babies are born they learn from their environment. Ed Tronick explained that “the brain is a cultural organ and experiences shape the brain (Van der Kolk, p. 135. 2014).” By understanding how these early interactions between babies and caregivers aid in the development of the VCC, researchers can also better understand how trauma impacts this development. Babies and children who are deprived of emotional or physical attunement have been taught that their needs are not valid and often adjust their needs to fit those of their caregivers. This inability to understand their own needs often causes them to shut down during periods of both positive and negative emotions later in life (Van der Kolk, 2014).
Treating children who suffered from lack of attuned caregivers and suffered abuse of trauma during their developmental years often require extra thoughtful treatment plans. Mental health professionals have found in recent years that children with these types of histories respond well to treatments that bridge the physical and mental spectrums. Methods like dance, music, gymnastics, yoga, meditation, and massages can help those who lack attunement with their body and emotions (Van der Kolk, 2014). Although great care is needed when executing these treatments due to trauma related sensitivities, when done correctly and gradually they have yielded outstanding results. Overall, attunement begins at birth and aids in the development of critical portions of the brain that control an individual’s ability to cooperate with others, build connections, and regulate their emotions. Although more treatments have become available in recent years, the relationships caregivers foster in the early years are critical to an individual's ability to cope with stress and develop resiliency.
Source:
Van der Kolk, B. A. (2014). The body keeps the score: Brain, mind, and body in the healing of trauma. Viking Penguin.