Philosophy Discussion Forums | A Humans-Only Club for Open-Minded Discussion & Debate

[Sushan]

This topic is about the June 2024 Philosophy Book of the Month, Quest: Finding Freddie: Reflections from the Other Side by Thomas Richard Spradlin

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In Quest: Finding Freddie, Thomas Richard Spradlin recounts a personal and intense experience that involved danger, international intrigue, and the disturbing reality of sexual slavery. Spradlin's narrative serves as a profound example of how writing about traumatic events can act as a form of catharsis, allowing the author to process and make sense of their experiences.

Revisiting traumatic memories can be both therapeutic and distressing. On one hand, writing can serve as a powerful tool for processing and integrating traumatic experiences, facilitating emotional healing. Research supports this, showing that expressive writing can lead to improvements in mental health, including reduced symptoms of depression and PTSD. Writing allows individuals to articulate their emotions, gain clarity, and achieve a sense of closure.

On the other hand, delving into traumatic memories can also reawaken intense emotions, potentially exacerbating psychological distress. For some, the act of writing might bring back feelings of anxiety, fear, or sadness, making it challenging to move forward. The process of sharing these experiences publicly adds another layer of complexity, raising ethical considerations about the potential impact on both the writer and the readers.

Spradlin's reflections on his experience underscore this duality. While he found writing to be cathartic, it also involved confronting the profound risks and emotional turmoil he faced during his time in Lagos.

What are the psychological benefits and risks of revisiting and writing about traumatic experiences? How do ethical considerations come into play when sharing personal trauma with a broader audience? Can writing serve as a universal tool for healing, or are its effects highly individualized, depending on the person and the nature of their experiences?

[Samana Johann]

Only people who don't overcome things are usually writting (telling) about it, at least publish it.

Don't yours write or tell quickly when someone had stolen your cellphone? What drives?

Maybe a helpful little story: The Healing of the Bull

[LuckyR]

In my experience, everyone has a greater or lesser capacity to detach their computational mind from their emotionalism. Thus why some are viewed negatively as "cold", "clinical", "calculating" but in times of stress positively as "cool under fire", "show great leadership", etc. Thus those who can engage their intellect to address problems without veering off course into out of control (negative) emotionalism, likely can benefit from such a rehash. Others are more vulnerable to wallowing in repetitive negative emotions.

[JackDaydream]

Writing about trauma can be compared with talking about it, as both are a means of sharing it with others, for better or worse. The other possibility is seeking to bury it through silent suffering. Psychodynamic therapies encourage talking about painful experiences and possible catharsis. The only trouble is that the catharsis may not always lead to healing and may even amplify the suffering.

As far as writing about trauma, it may be a form of reframing, just like therapy. It can be a way of connecting with others with similar experiences. It may be that trauma gives rise to some of the best quality writing as the raw material for creativity on an existential level.

With the ethical issues, it is tricky. One way many novelists navigate the conundrum is to mix and match fact and fiction, allowing for a certain amount of anonymity. It is possible to do this in such a way that concrete experiences are not identified clearly as they are blended in such a way to allow confidentiality to protect others involved and oneself. To 'out' oneself as having experienced trauma in itself can make one vulnerable and talking about it in a more subtle way allows for some distance and may allow for working through experience through imagination and the transformation of trauma in a creative way, through translating suffering into art.

[Sushan]

Only people who don't overcome things are usually writting (telling) about it, at least publish it.

Don't yours write or tell quickly when someone had stolen your cellphone? What drives?

Maybe a helpful little story: The Healing of the Bull

Thank you for the insight and for sharing "The Healing of the Bull." It's a beautiful and insightful story that highlights the profound ways in which people can process and overcome their struggles.

Isn’t it useful, though, for people who have not yet mastered the art of overcoming their hardships to at least write or talk about their sorrows to someone else? By sharing their grief, they can begin to dissipate it rather than keeping it bottled up inside, which often does more harm than good. Writing and talking about our experiences can help us make sense of them, find support, and ultimately heal. What are your thoughts on this?

[Sushan]

In my experience, everyone has a greater or lesser capacity to detach their computational mind from their emotionalism. Thus why some are viewed negatively as "cold", "clinical", "calculating" but in times of stress positively as "cool under fire", "show great leadership", etc. Thus those who can engage their intellect to address problems without veering off course into out of control (negative) emotionalism, likely can benefit from such a rehash. Others are more vulnerable to wallowing in repetitive negative emotions.

Thank you for that perspective. It's indeed fascinating how people vary in their capacity to manage emotions and how this ability can shape their response to stress and trauma.

Would you say that for those who find themselves overwhelmed by negative emotions, writing or talking about their experiences could still be beneficial if done in a supportive environment? Perhaps guided by a therapist or a trusted friend, this could help them process their feelings without becoming consumed by them. What do you think about the role of external support in managing and processing emotional distress?

[Sushan]

Writing about trauma can be compared with talking about it, as both are a means of sharing it with others, for better or worse. The other possibility is seeking to bury it through silent suffering. Psychodynamic therapies encourage talking about painful experiences and possible catharsis. The only trouble is that the catharsis may not always lead to healing and may even amplify the suffering.

As far as writing about trauma, it may be a form of reframing, just like therapy. It can be a way of connecting with others with similar experiences. It may be that trauma gives rise to some of the best quality writing as the raw material for creativity on an existential level.

With the ethical issues, it is tricky. One way many novelists navigate the conundrum is to mix and match fact and fiction, allowing for a certain amount of anonymity. It is possible to do this in such a way that concrete experiences are not identified clearly as they are blended in such a way to allow confidentiality to protect others involved and oneself. To 'out' oneself as having experienced trauma in itself can make one vulnerable and talking about it in a more subtle way allows for some distance and may allow for working through experience through imagination and the transformation of trauma in a creative way, through translating suffering into art.

Thank you for your thoughtful response. You've highlighted an important aspect of dealing with trauma—how sharing can be both a tool for connection and a potential risk if it amplifies suffering.

It's intriguing to consider how trauma can fuel creativity and result in profound writing. This blend of fact and fiction not only preserves anonymity but also transforms personal pain into something more universal, making it accessible and relatable to others.

Do you think that for those who struggle with overwhelming emotions, having a structured approach, like guided writing exercises or storytelling workshops, might help them process their experiences more safely and effectively? How can we create supportive environments that encourage this kind of creative expression while minimizing the risks of re-traumatization?

[LuckyR]

In my experience, everyone has a greater or lesser capacity to detach their computational mind from their emotionalism. Thus why some are viewed negatively as "cold", "clinical", "calculating" but in times of stress positively as "cool under fire", "show great leadership", etc. Thus those who can engage their intellect to address problems without veering off course into out of control (negative) emotionalism, likely can benefit from such a rehash. Others are more vulnerable to wallowing in repetitive negative emotions.

Thank you for that perspective. It's indeed fascinating how people vary in their capacity to manage emotions and how this ability can shape their response to stress and trauma.

Would you say that for those who find themselves overwhelmed by negative emotions, writing or talking about their experiences could still be beneficial if done in a supportive environment? Perhaps guided by a therapist or a trusted friend, this could help them process their feelings without becoming consumed by them. What do you think about the role of external support in managing and processing emotional distress?

Well, those who are more "tuned in" to their emotional side are (likely) going to ruminate about negative emotions regardless. So, yes, if they're going to focus on it anyway, better to do so with assistance than without. Additionally, perhaps collecting one's thoughts in order to put them on the page, will hopefully add a measure of their computational mind to temper what might be runaway emotionalism. Short answer: yes.

IOW I think it's an oversimplification to assume that if one doesn't write about a large stress, that one likely will have put it out of one's mind.

[JackDaydream]

Writing about trauma can be compared with talking about it, as both are a means of sharing it with others, for better or worse. The other possibility is seeking to bury it through silent suffering. Psychodynamic therapies encourage talking about painful experiences and possible catharsis. The only trouble is that the catharsis may not always lead to healing and may even amplify the suffering.

As far as writing about trauma, it may be a form of reframing, just like therapy. It can be a way of connecting with others with similar experiences. It may be that trauma gives rise to some of the best quality writing as the raw material for creativity on an existential level.

With the ethical issues, it is tricky. One way many novelists navigate the conundrum is to mix and match fact and fiction, allowing for a certain amount of anonymity. It is possible to do this in such a way that concrete experiences are not identified clearly as they are blended in such a way to allow confidentiality to protect others involved and oneself. To 'out' oneself as having experienced trauma in itself can make one vulnerable and talking about it in a more subtle way allows for some distance and may allow for working through experience through imagination and the transformation of trauma in a creative way, through translating suffering into art.

Thank you for your thoughtful response. You've highlighted an important aspect of dealing with trauma—how sharing can be both a tool for connection and a potential risk if it amplifies suffering.

It's intriguing to consider how trauma can fuel creativity and result in profound writing. This blend of fact and fiction not only preserves anonymity but also transforms personal pain into something more universal, making it accessible and relatable to others.

Do you think that for those who struggle with overwhelming emotions, having a structured approach, like guided writing exercises or storytelling workshops, might help them process their experiences more safely and effectively? How can we create supportive environments that encourage this kind of creative expression while minimizing the risks of re-traumatization?

I do think that for those 'who struggle with overwhelming emotions' structured guided exercises can be helpful. I was at a creative writing group this afternoon, and many people who attend have been through trauma. The critical factor though may be how well facilitated the group is, with ground rules, boundaries of respect and sensitivity.

Groups of this nature are different from workshops which are based on critical feedback to improve writing for publication. However, I have been to a couple of groups which are too basic and this one works from my point of view because it is possible to participate on any level. The group is not about sharing trauma specifically but many people do. Also, it blends cathartic sharing and enjoyment. There are warm up exercises, some collaborative writing and some personal writing time, with opportunity to share but no pressure to do so. Also, the sessions are only an hour long and an amazing amount of sharing can take place.

In groups there can be a tendency for people to ask , 'Is it true?' which can be a bit intrusive because it puts people on the spot of self-disclosure or evasion. But, I have known people, especially in mental health services, who go to courses on writing your own story and many find these extremely helpful. In this way, writing activities and workshops are an important aspect of psychological and art therapies.

[JackDaydream]

In my experience, everyone has a greater or lesser capacity to detach their computational mind from their emotionalism. Thus why some are viewed negatively as "cold", "clinical", "calculating" but in times of stress positively as "cool under fire", "show great leadership", etc. Thus those who can engage their intellect to address problems without veering off course into out of control (negative) emotionalism, likely can benefit from such a rehash. Others are more vulnerable to wallowing in repetitive negative emotions.

Thank you for that perspective. It's indeed fascinating how people vary in their capacity to manage emotions and how this ability can shape their response to stress and trauma.

Would you say that for those who find themselves overwhelmed by negative emotions, writing or talking about their experiences could still be beneficial if done in a supportive environment? Perhaps guided by a therapist or a trusted friend, this could help them process their feelings without becoming consumed by them. What do you think about the role of external support in managing and processing emotional distress?

Well, those who are more "tuned in" to their emotional side are (likely) going to ruminate about negative emotions regardless. So, yes, if they're going to focus on it anyway, better to do so with assistance than without. Additionally, perhaps collecting one's thoughts in order to put them on the page, will hopefully add a measure of their computational mind to temper what might be runaway emotionalism. Short answer: yes.

IOW I think it's an oversimplification to assume that if one doesn't write about a large stress, that one likely will have put it out of one's mind.

It is tricky to get the right balance in the expression of negativity in writing. When I first started writing my thoughts down in notebooks, I was inclined to wallow in misery. It probably made me feel more negative, so I changed my approach. The idea of affirmations is useful. However, it is probably about getting the right balance because expression of the negative emotions is a starting point for reflection, so both the negative and positive are important, and the balancing of this may in itself be an essential aspect of the process.

[Samana Johann]

Only people who don't overcome things are usually writting (telling) about it, at least publish it.

Don't yours write or tell quickly when someone had stolen your cellphone? What drives?

Maybe a helpful little story: The Healing of the Bull

Thank you for the insight and for sharing "The Healing of the Bull." It's a beautiful and insightful story that highlights the profound ways in which people can process and overcome their struggles.

Isn’t it useful, though, for people who have not yet mastered the art of overcoming their hardships to at least write or talk about their sorrows to someone else? By sharing their grief, they can begin to dissipate it rather than keeping it bottled up inside, which often does more harm than good. Writing and talking about our experiences can help us make sense of them, find support, and ultimately heal. What are your thoughts on this?

Given writing even a book: Such telling might be not effecting a wise friend/teacher, yet will surely increase bad ways of thoughts, anger, fear in many readers, might even spread hatred and at least, instead of sharing pleasing, one shares unpleasant. In cases one might have grown wise, the writer could give sample how to work things out right, yet such sages are merely rare.

Just may good householder think of effect when telling a story of felt injustice or bad she met. Wise people don't look for share of burdens and misery, for what would such change.

In most cases it's somehow done as kind of revenge or to seek ways to foster 'justice' or to blame. It increases unskilled in many ways or simply doesn't get the truth, as bind on one eye.

In this case here, it is sure that having much shame and concern, but that's something already praised in this days...

[Sushan]

In my experience, everyone has a greater or lesser capacity to detach their computational mind from their emotionalism. Thus why some are viewed negatively as "cold", "clinical", "calculating" but in times of stress positively as "cool under fire", "show great leadership", etc. Thus those who can engage their intellect to address problems without veering off course into out of control (negative) emotionalism, likely can benefit from such a rehash. Others are more vulnerable to wallowing in repetitive negative emotions.

Thank you for that perspective. It's indeed fascinating how people vary in their capacity to manage emotions and how this ability can shape their response to stress and trauma.

Would you say that for those who find themselves overwhelmed by negative emotions, writing or talking about their experiences could still be beneficial if done in a supportive environment? Perhaps guided by a therapist or a trusted friend, this could help them process their feelings without becoming consumed by them. What do you think about the role of external support in managing and processing emotional distress?

Well, those who are more "tuned in" to their emotional side are (likely) going to ruminate about negative emotions regardless. So, yes, if they're going to focus on it anyway, better to do so with assistance than without. Additionally, perhaps collecting one's thoughts in order to put them on the page, will hopefully add a measure of their computational mind to temper what might be runaway emotionalism. Short answer: yes.

IOW I think it's an oversimplification to assume that if one doesn't write about a large stress, that one likely will have put it out of one's mind.

I agree. When someone is not ventilating their emotions, it is more likely for them to ruminate on that rather than forget. However, there are defense mechanisms, such as repression and dissociation, that can lead to forgetting traumatic experiences. Repression involves unconsciously blocking out painful memories, while dissociation can create a sense of detachment from reality or memory gaps related to the trauma.

Writing about trauma could potentially interrupt these defense mechanisms. By bringing repressed memories to the surface, writing might force individuals to confront emotions they have been avoiding. This can be both therapeutic and distressing. On one hand, it can facilitate emotional healing by allowing individuals to process their trauma consciously. On the other hand, it might also lead to a temporary increase in distress as painful memories and emotions are revisited.

What are your thoughts on how writing interacts with these defense mechanisms?

[Sushan]

Writing about trauma can be compared with talking about it, as both are a means of sharing it with others, for better or worse. The other possibility is seeking to bury it through silent suffering. Psychodynamic therapies encourage talking about painful experiences and possible catharsis. The only trouble is that the catharsis may not always lead to healing and may even amplify the suffering.

As far as writing about trauma, it may be a form of reframing, just like therapy. It can be a way of connecting with others with similar experiences. It may be that trauma gives rise to some of the best quality writing as the raw material for creativity on an existential level.

With the ethical issues, it is tricky. One way many novelists navigate the conundrum is to mix and match fact and fiction, allowing for a certain amount of anonymity. It is possible to do this in such a way that concrete experiences are not identified clearly as they are blended in such a way to allow confidentiality to protect others involved and oneself. To 'out' oneself as having experienced trauma in itself can make one vulnerable and talking about it in a more subtle way allows for some distance and may allow for working through experience through imagination and the transformation of trauma in a creative way, through translating suffering into art.

Thank you for your thoughtful response. You've highlighted an important aspect of dealing with trauma—how sharing can be both a tool for connection and a potential risk if it amplifies suffering.

It's intriguing to consider how trauma can fuel creativity and result in profound writing. This blend of fact and fiction not only preserves anonymity but also transforms personal pain into something more universal, making it accessible and relatable to others.

Do you think that for those who struggle with overwhelming emotions, having a structured approach, like guided writing exercises or storytelling workshops, might help them process their experiences more safely and effectively? How can we create supportive environments that encourage this kind of creative expression while minimizing the risks of re-traumatization?

I do think that for those 'who struggle with overwhelming emotions' structured guided exercises can be helpful. I was at a creative writing group this afternoon, and many people who attend have been through trauma. The critical factor though may be how well facilitated the group is, with ground rules, boundaries of respect and sensitivity.

Groups of this nature are different from workshops which are based on critical feedback to improve writing for publication. However, I have been to a couple of groups which are too basic and this one works from my point of view because it is possible to participate on any level. The group is not about sharing trauma specifically but many people do. Also, it blends cathartic sharing and enjoyment. There are warm up exercises, some collaborative writing and some personal writing time, with opportunity to share but no pressure to do so. Also, the sessions are only an hour long and an amazing amount of sharing can take place.

In groups there can be a tendency for people to ask , 'Is it true?' which can be a bit intrusive because it puts people on the spot of self-disclosure or evasion. But, I have known people, especially in mental health services, who go to courses on writing your own story and many find these extremely helpful. In this way, writing activities and workshops are an important aspect of psychological and art therapies.

Your experience with the creative writing group sounds incredibly enriching and supportive. I agree that the facilitation and structure of such groups are key to their success. It's reassuring to hear that a mix of collaborative and personal writing exercises, along with an option to share or not, helps create a safe and respectful environment.

From what I've read, having trained facilitators who can navigate these complex emotional landscapes is essential. For instance, a study published in the Journal of Traumatic Stress emphasizes the importance of facilitators being skilled in trauma-informed care and group dynamics to help participants process their experiences safely (Pennebaker & Smyth, 2016).

In your opinion, what qualities make a facilitator particularly effective in these settings? Do you think there should be more emphasis on professional training for those leading therapeutic writing groups?

[Sushan]

In my experience, everyone has a greater or lesser capacity to detach their computational mind from their emotionalism. Thus why some are viewed negatively as "cold", "clinical", "calculating" but in times of stress positively as "cool under fire", "show great leadership", etc. Thus those who can engage their intellect to address problems without veering off course into out of control (negative) emotionalism, likely can benefit from such a rehash. Others are more vulnerable to wallowing in repetitive negative emotions.

Thank you for that perspective. It's indeed fascinating how people vary in their capacity to manage emotions and how this ability can shape their response to stress and trauma.

Would you say that for those who find themselves overwhelmed by negative emotions, writing or talking about their experiences could still be beneficial if done in a supportive environment? Perhaps guided by a therapist or a trusted friend, this could help them process their feelings without becoming consumed by them. What do you think about the role of external support in managing and processing emotional distress?

Well, those who are more "tuned in" to their emotional side are (likely) going to ruminate about negative emotions regardless. So, yes, if they're going to focus on it anyway, better to do so with assistance than without. Additionally, perhaps collecting one's thoughts in order to put them on the page, will hopefully add a measure of their computational mind to temper what might be runaway emotionalism. Short answer: yes.

IOW I think it's an oversimplification to assume that if one doesn't write about a large stress, that one likely will have put it out of one's mind.

It is tricky to get the right balance in the expression of negativity in writing. When I first started writing my thoughts down in notebooks, I was inclined to wallow in misery. It probably made me feel more negative, so I changed my approach. The idea of affirmations is useful. However, it is probably about getting the right balance because expression of the negative emotions is a starting point for reflection, so both the negative and positive are important, and the balancing of this may in itself be an essential aspect of the process.

Thank you for sharing your personal experiences and insights. It's fascinating to hear how you navigated the balance between expressing negative emotions and finding a more positive, reflective approach. Psychologically, this balance seems crucial for processing emotions in a healthy way—acknowledging and reflecting on negative feelings while also incorporating affirmations can lead to a more holistic form of emotional healing.

I'm curious, how did you discover the right balance for yourself? Were there specific techniques or moments that helped you shift from wallowing in negativity to a more balanced expression?

In my culture and society, discussing personal experiences, especially those involving deep emotional struggles, is often avoided due to the fear of being labeled as psychiatric patients. Your courage and honesty in sharing these aspects of your journey are truly commendable. Do you think your approach would be different in a society where such openness is less accepted? How do you think cultural factors influence the way we express and process our emotions through writing?

[Sushan]

Only people who don't overcome things are usually writting (telling) about it, at least publish it.

Don't yours write or tell quickly when someone had stolen your cellphone? What drives?

Maybe a helpful little story: The Healing of the Bull

Thank you for the insight and for sharing "The Healing of the Bull." It's a beautiful and insightful story that highlights the profound ways in which people can process and overcome their struggles.

Isn’t it useful, though, for people who have not yet mastered the art of overcoming their hardships to at least write or talk about their sorrows to someone else? By sharing their grief, they can begin to dissipate it rather than keeping it bottled up inside, which often does more harm than good. Writing and talking about our experiences can help us make sense of them, find support, and ultimately heal. What are your thoughts on this?

Given writing even a book: Such telling might be not effecting a wise friend/teacher, yet will surely increase bad ways of thoughts, anger, fear in many readers, might even spread hatred and at least, instead of sharing pleasing, one shares unpleasant. In cases one might have grown wise, the writer could give sample how to work things out right, yet such sages are merely rare.

Just may good householder think of effect when telling a story of felt injustice or bad she met. Wise people don't look for share of burdens and misery, for what would such change.

In most cases it's somehow done as kind of revenge or to seek ways to foster 'justice' or to blame. It increases unskilled in many ways or simply doesn't get the truth, as bind on one eye.

In this case here, it is sure that having much shame and concern, but that's something already praised in this days...

Your observations about the potential for negative writing to foster unskilled behavior and misunderstandings are valid concerns. The challenge lies in finding ways to express and process negative experiences that promote healing and understanding rather than exacerbating suffering.

Sharing traumatic or negative experiences through writing can indeed affect readers differently. According to social learning theory, people learn behaviors and emotional responses by observing others. If a narrative heavily emphasizes negative emotions without resolution, it may reinforce similar negative emotions in readers. However, narrative therapy suggests that re-authoring one’s story can be a powerful tool for both the writer and readers. By seeing someone else navigate through trauma, readers might find validation and strategies for their own healing.

The concept of catharsis in psychoanalytic theory, proposed by Freud, suggests that expressing emotions can help alleviate psychological tension. However, research shows mixed results on whether venting negative emotions always leads to relief. You rightly point out that focusing solely on negative emotions can lead to rumination and increased distress. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) highlights the importance of balanced thinking and addressing negative thoughts with constructive strategies.

Your point about sharing as a form of seeking justice or revenge aligns with the concept of secondary gain in psychodynamic theory, where individuals might unconsciously benefit from their symptoms or complaints. Positive psychology, on the other hand, emphasizes the role of sharing stories to build resilience and foster post-traumatic growth. When people share their experiences constructively, it can lead to a greater sense of community and understanding.

In Buddhism, the importance of mindfulness and balanced emotions is emphasized. The practice of "right speech" encourages speaking truthfully, harmoniously, and beneficially. Writing, seen as an extension of speech, should ideally serve to enlighten and heal rather than harm. Buddhism also teaches the importance of acknowledging and letting go of negative emotions through practices such as meditation and mindfulness. This helps to ventilate emotions without perpetuating negative cycles.

I'm interested in your thoughts on how we can encourage more mindful and constructive storytelling. How do you think writers can strike a balance between honestly sharing their struggles and fostering a positive impact on their readers?