This program of research will investigate the potential benefits of poetry therapy by traumatized clients seeking relief from traumatic stress symptoms. We speculate that poetry therapy enables clients to access information and emotions through controlled exposure to traumatic memories while activating the reciprocal inhibition reflex leading to a gradual desensitization of the learned stress reactions. Various physiological measures will monitor both the stress reduction and the immune enhancement as well as client self report, starting with phase I clinical trials.
 

Important Links:
National Association for Poetry Therapy
Jamie Pennebaker's papers
Return to Professor Figley's Research Page