The Body Keeps the Score is Bullshit

Summary

The article critiques Bessel van der Kolk's 'The Body Keeps the Score,' arguing its claims about trauma are scientifically flawed. It cites expert Dr. Michael Scheeringa's counter-arguments and research suggesting pre-existing conditions may cause trauma susceptibility.

Key Takeaways

1. Van der Kolk’s big idea is that past mental traumas (as he defines them) can produce actual long-lasting changes in the body and brain, regardless of whether the person has a memory of the trauma or not.
2. Dr. Michael Scheeringa, professor at Tulane University School of Medicine has a 29 year career researching and treating PTSD.
3. An unhealthy person may be more susceptible to trauma.

Statement Breakdown

• Claimed Facts: 50% of statements the article presents as facts
• Opinions: 30% of statements classified as editorial or subjective
• Claims: 20% of statements surfaced for additional reader evaluation

Credibility & Bias Reasoning

Credibility assessment: The article presents a critical analysis of a popular book, citing expert opinions and research to support its claims. It directly challenges the book's assertions with counter-evidence and alternative explanations. However, it relies heavily on one expert's critique, which could introduce bias.

Bias assessment: Skeptical Critique of Mainstream Psychology. The article is heavily critical of a widely accepted book on trauma, presenting a contrarian viewpoint. It questions the validity of the book's claims and the author's methodology, suggesting an alternative perspective on the relationship between trauma and brain function. The author is clearly positioned against the mainstream view.

Note: This article presents a critical perspective on a popular book about trauma. Consider multiple viewpoints and consult diverse sources before drawing conclusions.

Credibility flag: Question Authority

Claimed Facts (6)

• Presents a verifiable fact about the book's popularity.
• Provides a verifiable statistic about the book's sales and recognition.
• States a verifiable fact about the publication of a counter-argument book.
• Refers to a specific study with findings related to PTSD.
• Provides a specific example of the book's use in academic settings.
• Summarizes the findings of a scientific paper.

Opinions (6)

• This is a subjective assessment of van der Kolk's fame.
• Expresses a subjective opinion about the book's presentation.
• Expresses the author's opinion on what should be done.
• Expresses the author's opinion on the lack of critical analysis of the book.
• Expresses a strong, subjective opinion about the book's content.
• Expresses a subjective assessment of the book's research basis.

Claims (5)

• This is an exaggerated claim about the prevalence and impact of trauma.
• This is a speculative claim without strong scientific backing.
• This is speculative and lacks direct evidence.
• This is a generalization that may not be supported by evidence.
• This is a self-diagnosis of trauma based on a common birth experience.

Key Sources

• Joseph Everett (WIL) — Author
• Bessel van der Kolk — Psychiatrist, Author of 'The Body Keeps the Score'
• New York Magazine — Media Outlet
• Dr. Michael Scheeringa — Professor at Tulane University School of Medicine
• Dave Asprey — "Biohacker"
• New York Times — Media Outlet