Body Keeps the Score
Bessel van der Kolk
Trauma is a fact of life. Veterans and their families deal with the painful aftermath of combat; one in five Americans has been molested; one in four grew up with alcoholics; one in three couples have engaged in physical violence. Dr. Bessel van der Kolk, one of the world’s foremost experts on trauma, has spent over three decades working with survivors. In _The Body Keeps the Score_, he uses recent scientific advances to show how trauma literally reshapes both body and brain, compromising sufferers’ capacities for pleasure, engagement, self-control, and trust. He explores innovative treatments—from neurofeedback and meditation to sports, drama, and yoga—that offer new paths to recovery by activating the brain’s natural neuroplasticity. Based on Dr. van der Kolk’s own research and that of other leading specialists, _The Body Keeps the Score_ exposes the tremendous power of our relationships both to hurt and to heal—and offers new hope for reclaiming lives.
Why we have this one
A bit of a cult classic but also WIDELY criticised. Some common suggestions in its place are: What My Bones Know. Stephanie Foo 2022 , Trauma and Recovery. Judith Herman 1992, The End of Trauma George Bonanno 2021
What is in this book
Potentially Triggering relaying of traumatic incidents. Also, people claim The Body Keeps the Score stigmatises survivors, blames victims, and depoliticises violence. Make kind decisions for yourself.
We keep this one because it matters, not because we would press it on anybody. Borrow it if you want it — and do ask us about it first if you are unsure.
Someone else has this at the moment. Join the list and we will text you when it is your turn.
Join the waiting listCollect at Kinky Speed Dating, Wed 21 October, Enclave, 236 Lord Street, Perth.
