Trauma In The Raven

In the chapter the “Raven” both Amber and Ted both experienced trauma which lead to symptoms of dissociative disorder. Both experienced traumatic events in early adolescent years and experienced different symptoms to help cope with the emotional pain. Amber, would cut herself because “cutting can be soothing to provide and escape from anxiety, caused by revisiting traumatic memories”(). By cutting she moved into a dream like consciousness to produce a calming effect similar to what people feel from taking opioid drugs.
Ted, would have fainting spells when he felt threaten by male figures and he often was withdrawn in school settings. More so than Amber “ he seemed to have discovered a way of fading into the background, recognizing that

earning grades that were too low or to high would bring attention”(). In order for Ted, to survive he felt that he must fade into the ‘gray middle’ and become invisible from any potential conflict that could harm him.
Gender can influence the way someone handles dissociative symptoms. Males usually become more aggressive or lash out. Whereas females, tend to hold emotions inside, which can manifest as self-harming behaviors. In addition, suicidal ideations/ attempts, eating disorders, and other high risk behaviors signs that both males and females can experience when dealing with extreme trauma.
When working with individuals who suffer from symptoms of dissociative diagnosis and symptoms. Many therapy approaches can be helpful. Cognitive behavioral therapy is beneficial to help address unhealthy patterns of self-harming behaviors. This therapy also improves healthy coping skills to deal with feelings of low self-worth. Exposure therapy, can help an individual address PTSD symptoms. In addition, this therapy helps to identify triggers of anxiety and leading techniques to improve emotional coping skills. Interpersonal therapy, can address social anxiety and helps improve strategies for developing positive interactions with others. Furthermore, medications such as antidepressants are used to help treat symptoms of related conditions that often go hand in hand with dissociative disorders.
References:
Perry, B. D., & Szalavitz, M. (2006). The boy who was raised as a dog: And other stories from a child psychiatrist's notebook: What traumatized children can teach us about loss, love, and healing. New York: Basic Books.