ExtraCreditO2_TheDeepestWell_AbigahileBruny

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Apr 3, 2024

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Abigahile Bruny PSYC 3143-CO1 Dr. Wilcox Extra Credit Option 2: Book Review Book: The Deepest Well Author: Nadine Burke Harris Unraveling Childhood Adversity: A Book Review of “The Deepest Well” In “The Deepest Well,” Nadine Burk Harris explores how tough times during childhood can affect our health for a long time. As a pediatrician and public health advocate, Dr. Burke Harris delves in to the realm of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and their profound influence on physical and mental well-being. This book review aims to provide a detailed description of the book, summarizing its major points, a comprehensive analysis, and evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of Harris’s work while integrating class knowledge to offer a well- rounded perspective. Additionally, in this review I will share personal reflections, exploration of newfound knowledge about ACEs, health, and the implications for both psychology and society. In “The Deepest Well,” Dr. Burke Harris introduces readers to the ACE study, a groundbreaking research initiative that examines the correlation between childhood trauma and health outcomes. Dr. Burke Harris skillfully and compellingly exposes the alarming prevalence and enduring consequences of ACEs. She presents surprising research findings, uncovering how

ACEs, which encompass neglect, parental addiction, and abuse, can significantly elevate rise of heart disease, stroke, cancer, diabetes, and other health issues later in life. The book is structured in a way that blends scientific research with personal narratives, creating a compelling narrative that takes the reader on a journey through the world of ACEs. We join Harris in a somber acknowledgment of how childhood trauma can impact the body’s physiological system. Drawing from her experiences as a compassionate pediatrician, Dr. Burke Harris reflects on her initial confusion when confronted with unexplained health issues in children of a disadvantaged San Francisco neighborhood. This perplexity led her to scrutinize the correlation between sociological stressors and physical health. One of the book’s strengths lies in it accessibility to a broad audience. Dr. Burke Harris effectively communicates complex scientific concepts, making the information digestible for readers without a background in psychology or medicine. The integration of real-life stories enhances the emotional resonance of the book, fostering a deeper connection with the subject matter. However, a notable limitation is the relatively brief exploration of intervention strategies. While the book effectively outlines the problem, readers (including myself) may find themselves wishing for more detailed discussions on practical solutions and policies aimed at alleviating the impact of ACEs. The narrative, while powerful, learns more towards raising awareness than providing concrete avenues for change. Drawing on our class discussions about the biopsychosocial model and the interconnected nature of psychological and physical health, “The Deepest Well” aligns with the core principles of our studies. The book serves as an illustration of how psychological factors, such as early-life stress, can have lasting effects on health, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive understanding of well-being. However, a critical lens reveals the need for a more

in-depth exploration of cultural and socio-economic factors influencing ACEs. While the book acknowledges these influences, a deeper dive into the intersectionality of adversity could enhance its overall impact and relevance to diverse populations. On a personal note, reading “The Deepest Well” stirred reflective moments about my own childhood experiences and the potential long-term effects they might have on my health. Reading this book stirred a deep sense of empathy and reflection. Harris’s storytelling brought to life the human impact of ACEs, prompting me to consider the implications of childhood experiences on mental and physical health. As a psychology student, I feel that the book reminded me that what we learn isn’t just about facts but that really matters in people’s lives. The stories from Dr. Burke Harris’s job as a doctor were touching a made me feel connected to the people she helps. The book’s impact extended beyond the pages, prompting self-reflection, increased awareness of societal patterns, and a commitment to contribute to the well-being of individuals and communities affected by childhood adversity. The book deepened my understanding of ACEs, emphasizing how early experiences can shape health outcomes. I learned about the intricate links between stress, brain development, and long-term health, underscoring the importance of addressing psychological factors in the broader context of public health. The most interesting aspect from reading this book was the interconnectedness of ACEs with a wide array of health issues, extending beyond mental health to include conditions like heart disease and diabetes. The comprehensive exploration of these connections was both eye-opening and surprising. Even though the book covers most, I still have some questions about how we can make helpful changes on a bigger scale. I’m curious about what society and policies need to do to systematically deal with ACEs. I want to know how we can make interventions that work well for different cultures.

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