Trauma, Neurobiology, and the Healing Power of Social Connection

Catalog description

This undergraduate course offers a comprehensive exploration of trauma, neurobiology, and the healing power of social connection, and is structured into four main units. In Unit 1: Self-Care, students begin by establishing a foundation for self-care, recognizing its critical importance in navigating the potentially challenging and triggering topics discussed throughout the semester. Through self-reflection and guided exercises, students develop personalized self-care plans to prioritize their well-being. Next, in Unit 2: Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), the course delves into the concept of ACEs and their profound impact on individuals' health and well-being. Students explore the various forms of ACEs, the underlying societal factors contributing to their prevalence, and the science of stress and its impact on the brain. In Unit 3: Neurobiology of Trauma, students deepen their understanding of trauma by examining its neurobiological underpinnings and implications for human development and functioning. Students explore topics such as neurosequential brain development, state-dependent functioning, and the neurobiology of coping and healing. In the final unit, Unit 4: Social Connection, the course concludes with an examination of the importance of social connection in promoting resilience and well-being. Students explore the impact of loneliness on physical and mental health, the cultural dimensions of socialization, the biological underpinnings of social connection, and the intersection of technology and social connection. Additionally, students examine the strategies for fostering meaningful social connections in personal and professional contexts. Counts as a Full-Semester Wellness/Non-movement course.