“Words Between Words: The Narrative Power of Silence & Non-Linguistics to Convey, Access, and Heal Traumatic Experience”
Student Type
Undergraduate
Faculty Sponsor
Dr. Melissa Elmes
Date
4-12-2022
College Affiliation
College of Arts and Humanities
Department
English
Submission Type
Oral Presentation
Abstract
What is linguistically significant about silence? It is a useful tool for trauma sufferers, whose experiences are often difficult to articulate through conventional language. Trauma remains a prevalent psychological issue, yet it often remains misunderstood and unapproachable; the inherent incommunicability of trauma makes it a difficult condition for sufferers to communicate and for outsiders to understand. We must learn the significance behind non-linguistic communications, as these help to convey a sufferer's thoughts, feelings, and experiences. In my approach, “Reciprocal Therapy,” the listener takes responsibility for understanding the intricacies of trauma and its incommunicability. I also call this the “Empathy Approach” because of the underlying linchpin of personal investigation into trauma and its effects on the everyday life. I also propose the addition of “Quiet Linguistics” to the linguistic canon, on the logic that silence and other non-words are elements of communication necessary to be studied scientifically— especially in therapeutic cases.
Recommended Citation
Mesz, Gia, "“Words Between Words: The Narrative Power of Silence & Non-Linguistics to Convey, Access, and Heal Traumatic Experience”" (2022). 2022 Student Academic Showcase. 5.
https://digitalcommons.lindenwood.edu/src/Oral_Presentations/Session2/5
Publication Date
2022
“Words Between Words: The Narrative Power of Silence & Non-Linguistics to Convey, Access, and Heal Traumatic Experience”
What is linguistically significant about silence? It is a useful tool for trauma sufferers, whose experiences are often difficult to articulate through conventional language. Trauma remains a prevalent psychological issue, yet it often remains misunderstood and unapproachable; the inherent incommunicability of trauma makes it a difficult condition for sufferers to communicate and for outsiders to understand. We must learn the significance behind non-linguistic communications, as these help to convey a sufferer's thoughts, feelings, and experiences. In my approach, “Reciprocal Therapy,” the listener takes responsibility for understanding the intricacies of trauma and its incommunicability. I also call this the “Empathy Approach” because of the underlying linchpin of personal investigation into trauma and its effects on the everyday life. I also propose the addition of “Quiet Linguistics” to the linguistic canon, on the logic that silence and other non-words are elements of communication necessary to be studied scientifically— especially in therapeutic cases.