Trauma, Culture, and Metaphor

In Trauma, Culture, and Metaphor, John Wilson and Jacob Lindy explore the language of both individual and collective trauma in an era dominated by globalization and interconnectedness. Through lucid, careful discussion, this important book builds a bridge between the etymology of trauma-related terms commonly used in Western cultures and those of other cultures, such as the Burundi-Rwandan ihahamuka. It also provides the clinician with a framework for working with trauma survivors using a cross-cultural vocabulary—one often based in metaphor—to fully address the experienced trauma and to begin work on reconnection and self-reinvention.

"This book examines how psychic trauma is expressed through 'verbalized linguistic metaphors'. One central premise of this book is that traumatic experiences, in their totality, transcend direct communication. Instead, individuals express themselves through the use of unique metaphors that represent their experiences and characterize the process of recovery from posttraumatic stress symptoms. Wilson and Lindy combine their clinical expertise and theoretical knowledge to present an argument that has both historical and contemporary relevance. Summing Up: Recommended."—A.N. Douglas, Mount Holyoke College, in CHOICE, June 2014"Trauma, Culture, and Metaphor is a clinical jewel. In it, clinicians, policy makers, and public-health advocates can view the transformations of individuals and societies as they come to process and master trauma. To my knowledge, there isn’t a text like it; trainees and experienced professionals alike will benefit from the wisdom contained herein."—Terence M. Keane, PhD, director of the behavioral science division of the National Center for PTSD"At times of reductionism and mechanicism in psychology and psychiatry, Wilson and Lindy point out the importance of truly understanding a trauma survivor. They teach us how to listen to trauma stories in patient, empathic, passionate, knowledgeable, and culturally sensitive ways. Yet again, a great volume from this creative duo!"—Boris Drožđek, MD, psychiatrist, Psychotrauma Centrum Zuid Nederland/Reinier van Arkel groep, Den Bosch, The Netherlands"Wilson and Lindy's remarkably comprehensive and seminal work illuminates the complex and powerful role of trauma-specific metaphors as ‘portals of entry into the central impact of (psychic) trauma to self-processes’ at various points along the survivor's journey. Rich usage of clinical vignettes embedded in culture-specific context anchors real-world insight and application. A must read."—Ray Scurfield, DSW, professor emeritus of social work at the University of Southern Mississippi "Wilson and Lindy’s book Trauma, Culture, and Metaphor: Pathways of Transformation and Integration represents homage to trauma survivors’ healing journey back to reintegration. This book will be of particular interest to therapists and psychology faculty whose focus is on trauma recovery." —Katharine Hahn Oh, PsycCRITIQUES"I have often wondered if empathy can be taught; the authors have answered that for me with a resounding ‘yes!’ Trauma, Culture, and Metaphor is not a catalogue or system of techniques but a map for the development of compassion and, from that, true empathy, respect and even admiration for trauma survivors’ experiences. "—Robert McMackin, EdD, codirector of Lemuel Shattuck Hospital Psychology Service, Boston

John P. Wilson, PhD, is professor of psychology at Cleveland State University, a Fulbright scholar, and a widely recognized expert on PTSD. He is co-founder and past president of the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies (ISTSS), a diplomate and fellow of the American Academy of Experts in Traumatic Stress, and a fellow of the American Institute of Stress.Jacob D. Lindy, MD, is a clinical professor in the department of psychiatry at the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine and a training and supervising analyst at the Cincinnati Psychoanalytic Institute.