I found this article fascinating for two reasons. First; the majority of research was done amongst a group of chimpanzees. The species of chimpanzees studied; Pan Troglodytes; share between “98.6 and 99.4% of its genes with homo sapiens.” (Chernus, 2008) They also exhibit similar emotional attachments and depend heavily on their mothers for the first five to six years of their lives. Because of all of these similarities; by studying the chimpanzee’s reactions to abandonment, abuse, and isolation, we will be able to further our understanding of human children’s reactions to such trauma without subjecting our children to research, and possible additional mental anguish. The chimpanzees are put in situations of abandonment, neglect, and isolation in a simulated natural habitat and their reactions are observed. However, this brings about the question; is it okay to socially and emotionally ostracize these animals? What is the risk/benefit equation for this particular study?
Secondly, the article had a profound way of explaining trauma to the reader; “An event is said to be ‘traumatic’ when it is such that almost everyone will be somehow psychologically affected by it, although in a diversity of ways and with a wide range of recovery outcomes. Some individuals will become permanently disabled, whereas others may fully recover their preexisting equilibrium or even achieve an enhanced, more adaptive level of functioning as a result of working through their traumatic experiences.” (Chernus, 2008) I really liked this explanation because it honors every reaction to trauma as relevant. Everyone reacts different to different stimuli; therefore, there is no right or wrong way to recover from trauma. As educators, it’s important to acknowledge this fact so as to better support our students that suffer through traumatic experiences. I believe that it will assist us in remaining objective, patient, and understanding, when dealing with small children who will need our love and support through such situations.
Personally, I feel that conducting this type of research through the observation of chimpanzees is a brilliant way to help children who suffer from abandonment, neglect, and isolation. We will come to better understand children who have lived through traumatic situations, while sparing them the possibility of further traumatization. I would love to hear other’s feedback on this article. I’m curious as to how all of my colleagues will feel about the use of chimpanzees in this study as opposed to observing children who have already suffered through abandonment, neglect and isolation.
References:
Chernus, L. A. (2008). Separation/Abandonment/Isolation Trauma: An Application of Psychoanalytic Developmental Theory to Understanding its Impact on Both Chimpanzee and Human Children. Journal of Emotional Abuse, 447-468.
Raina,
ReplyDeleteIt is interesting that researchers have identified that this specific chimpanzee has similar developmental stages as that of a human child. I wonder if chimpanzees are observed with possessing the three protective factors for supporting social competence and emotional security. The protective factors that can help children overcome trauma in their little lives; initiative, self-control and attachment. You have sparked my curiosity so I will be reviewing this article in the near future.
Raina,
ReplyDeletethis is a very fascinating article. It seems as though you consent to animal testing in place of humans for research purposes. In light of the article, I think that it was a very appropriate substitute. But, realistically, do you think that research on animals is accurately conducive to human behaviors? This was a VERY thought provoking article. THANKS for the post :)
CCWhite