Some theorists have mistakenly applied the concept of "learned helplessness" to the situation of battered women and other chronically traumatized people. Such concepts tend to portray the victim as simply defeated or apathetic, whereas in fact a much livelier and more complex inner struggle is usually taking place. In most cases the victim has not… Continue reading Thursday Thought — Learned Helplessness, a misapplied concept
Tag: Judith Herman
This Thing Called Healing
I can't take criticism. After a lifetime of abuse, the smallest critique sends me either running to the bathroom to cry or coming out with both fists flailing, trying desperately to fend off attacks. All I hear is yet again how bad I am, how messed up I am, how selfish, stubborn and hard-headed I… Continue reading This Thing Called Healing
