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When I teach (particularly) in Women’s Studies, sometimes the class discussions turn to sensitive, strong and/or controversial topics. I’m aware that the subject matter has the potential to trigger flashbacks and other negative emotions for the participants. When I know ahead of time that readings (for example) could trigger these reactions I’ll post a trigger warning with the reading list, but I feel like this is not enough. (See below for an example.) And when discussion in class shifts in this direction I’m unable to warn ahead of time.
While I am willing to accommodate, I don’t think it’s fair to ask students to identify themselves as survivors of abuse, or sexual assault and I’m not sure what forms of accommodation would be appropriate in these cases. I want to be sensitive to student needs for self-care without putting anyone through the disclosure process. I’m unsure what I can and should do in this case.
Any suggestions? What do you in your own classes where difficult topics appear?
Question on use of trigger warnings in class discussions on Better Teaching blog http://bit.ly/iiZT44
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