Tag Archives: agency
What Does It Mean to Establish Safety First in Trauma Recovery?
We hear a lot about the importance of safety and its effect on nervous system regulation in trauma recovery, but what does establishing safety first actually mean in everyday life? And how do we build genuine physical and psychological safety? … Continue reading
CRPS Awareness and Interpersonal Neurobiology: Healing Through Relational Safety and Connection
November 2nd is CRPS Awareness Day. Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) is a profound neurophysiological disorder characterized by chronic nervous system dysregulation, central nervous system sensitization, and relentless pain. On CRPS Awareness Day, shifting the narrative around chronic pain requires … Continue reading
Why Chronic Pain is So Exhausting
People often think of pain as something you should be able to push through if you’re determined enough. That isn’t how recurrent pain works. When my pain is high, it changes everything. My attention is pulled toward it because my … Continue reading
From the Family to Empires: How Hierarchies Harm Us All
From an Interpersonal Neurobiology (IPNB) perspective, all hierarchies that operate through domination dynamics are fundamentally the same. They impose the same relational structure: an imbalance of power where one party exerts control over others, often at the expense of connection, … Continue reading
Creating Confident Patients: An IPNB Approach to Healthcare Advocacy
From an Interpersonal Neurobiology (IPNB) perspective, understanding and addressing the reluctance of patients to question healthcare providers involves recognizing the complex interplay between the brain, mind, and relationships. Here are some ways to advocate effectively for patients’ needs: Foster a … Continue reading
The Neurobiology of Uncertainty and Fear
Interpersonal Neurobiology (IPNB) offers a lens to understand how our brains and bodies respond to uncertainty and fear, particularly during times of political unrest. Here’s a breakdown of how IPNB principles apply to this context: The Neurobiology of Fear and … Continue reading
Building Our Sense of Agency
Trauma, particularly chronic or developmental trauma, often affects our sense of agency. This is especially true when the people, structures, and systems that are supposed to protect us and create justice refuse to hold abusers accountable. Our sense of agency … Continue reading
The Illusion of Autonomy: How Power Dynamics Shape Freedom
While agency and autonomy are often celebrated in Western culture, it’s important to look at who benefits from these ideals and how they are distributed. Upon closer examination, there are significant disparities in whose agency and autonomy are truly respected, … Continue reading
A Network of Complicity: The Neurobiology of Bystander Guilt in the P Diddy Allegations
In the recent allegations against Sean “Diddy” Combs, several people surrounding him, including staff members, have been implicated as enablers or bystanders. These individuals allegedly helped facilitate or cover up the abuse, particularly during events referred to as “freak-offs.” Combs’ … Continue reading