Transforming Trauma: Shifting Mindsets from External to Internal Control
"An external locus of control sees the world as happening to them, while an internal locus of control sees themselves as happening to the world." Vilia Y Reynolds
Trauma profoundly impacts how we perceive ourselves and our world. When individuals experience traumatic events, they often adopt an external locus of control. This mindset views the world as something that happens to them rather than recognising their ability to influence their surroundings. This perspective can be disempowering and hinder recovery. However, understanding and embracing an internal locus of control empowers individuals to feel agency, allowing them to shape their experiences and outcomes. This shift in mindset is not just a change; it's a source of inspiration and motivation, igniting a sense of empowerment that can transform your life.
Transforming Trauma: Shifting Mindsets from External to Internal Control
Consider the story of Emily, a young professional who endured a severe car accident. Following the incident, Emily felt that everything in her life was spiralling out of control. She became hyper-aware of potential dangers and often avoided situations she once enjoyed, like driving or socialising. This shift in mindset—feeling that the world was acting upon her—left her anxious and stagnant.
Emily's experience illuminates a common theme in trauma survivors: the struggle between feeling victimised by circumstances and reclaiming ownership of one's life. The underlying core assumptions formed during traumatic experiences can severely alter how we relate to ourselves and others. When we operate from an external locus of control, we may believe that our emotions, choices, and circumstances are dictated by external factors—our past, other people, and even fate.
Reclaiming Control Through Healing
Fortunately, there are practical approaches to helping individuals like Emily redefine their narratives and shift their mindsets. One such method is the Applied Metapsychology Methodology, which incorporates Trauma Incident Reduction (TIR) techniques. TIR enables individuals to process and confront their traumatic memories in a safe space, fostering emotional healing and self-discovery.
TIR involves guiding individuals through a structured process of revisiting the details of their trauma. This could include acknowledging specific feelings and physical reactions tied to the event and identifying emerging negative beliefs. Through this process, individuals gain clarity about their thoughts and feelings, leading them toward empowerment and healing.
Fast-Tracking Recovery
The effectiveness of TIR lies in its rapid approach to trauma recovery. Individuals can dismantle these experiences' hold on their lives by systematically addressing each traumatic incident. For instance, Emily, with the support of a qualified therapist, began to explore the emotions connected to her car accident and recognised her patterns of avoidance. As she processed her trauma using TIR, she started to replace her feelings of helplessness with a renewed sense of control.
While TIR is beneficial for many types of trauma—including emotional abuse, accidents, and natural disasters—it's essential to consult with a qualified therapist to determine its suitability for individual needs. Certain circumstances, such as severe mental health conditions or cognitive limitations, may necessitate alternative approaches.
Empower Your Journey
If you or someone you know is struggling with the aftermath of a traumatic experience, consider exploring the transformative potential of Applied Metapsychology and TIR. Individuals can reclaim their narratives and foster resilience by shifting from an external locus of control to an internal one. Remember, healing is not just about overcoming the past; it is about embracing the power to create a fulfilling future. Embrace your journey towards empowerment and discover the strength that lies within.
