Class 4 - Perry ch. 8-10

Class 4 - Perry ch. 8-10

by Serena Rose Gaskin -
Number of replies: 0

I am fascinated by the extent of dissociation mentioned in chapter 8 specifically where Amber fell unconscious as a coping mechanism for the intense trauma and abuse she experienced growing up. The question, "Could this be an extreme dissociative response, which had essentially caused her brain to OD on its own opioids?" (Perry 2017, p. 203) is one that strikes me. Dr. Perry's suggestion of naloxone, an antidote to opioid overdose, for Amber's revival reminds me of the complexity and nuance of the brain. This section of the chapter reminded me of the importance of the biology in the biopsychosocial model, with the brain being an organ that can be manipulated through and influenced by medication and experiences (nature AND nurture), and to not forget the power it holds. For myself at times, I find it easy to focus on the psychology of an individual as being more towards the side of nurture, forgetting the impact nature (and pure biology) can have ON the psychology of an individual. I sense that at times, there can be a hesitation from people to remember the brain as a biological organ to preserve looking at an individual from a holistic perspective. I understand this, and still see importance in acknowledging the biology that shapes an individual's experiences.