Constance Scharff, Ph.D.: The Role of Storytelling in Enhancing Family Dynamics | All Together #57

This podcast offers thoughtful takeaways for anyone seeking to understand loved ones on a deeper level. Constance Scharff shares her expertise on how sharing people’s personal narratives can empower families and support healing from life’s difficulties.

Meet Constance Scharff, Ph.D.

Constance Scharff, also known by her Hebrew name Ahuva Batya, has a PhD in Transformative Studies, specializing in radically transformative personal experience. She is a full-time author and speaker, traveling around the world to help people overcome trauma and addiction.

In her role as an addiction and trauma researcher, Dr. Constance brings the latest in evidence-based, complementary addiction and trauma treatment information to those who suffer worldwide from addiction and trauma. She has spoken globally at conferences and shared information with researchers and mental health professionals. Her passion is working with mental health professionals to use various practices that improve treatment outcomes.

Dr. Constance also works to eliminate the stigma that is too often associated with addiction, trauma, and other mental health issues, so that individuals in need of care will be able to receive that support. In 2019, she received St. Lawrence University’s Sol Feinstone Humanitarian Award for her advocacy and work on behalf of those with mental health, trauma, and substance use issues.

About the episode

This podcast shares insightful lessons on the powerful role of storytelling within families. Constance discusses how the stories most people hear since childhood establish people’s sense of self and place in the world. As someone who writes about family and spirituality, she understands the formative nature of these oral histories.

One particularly thought-provoking aspect is how individual memories of shared family stories can differ. People all perceive the past through their lenses of experience. More importantly, some recollections may inflict unintended harm. Constance offers guidance for families to incorporate reminiscence in a way that uplifts rather than divides. With awareness and compassion, you can acknowledge sensitive topics and agree on narratives honoring everyone.

Here are some tips Constance provided on incorporating storytelling into families:

Be aware of stories that denigrate or harm family members. Don’t tell stories that put people down or damage relationships.
Focus on sharing stories that bring the family together rather than divide them. Stories about perseverance or family virtues can unite people.
Stories should empower kids by raising their horizons, not limiting what they can do through gender/other stereotypes.
Shared stories build cultural pride and connection but beware of notions that idealize the past or obscure painful histories that still impact people.

In conclusion

For those seeking to enrich relationships and family culture, this podcast offers thought-provoking insight. Constance possesses valuable expertise through her clinical work navigating trauma. She emphasizes the importance of awareness of stories that may inadvertently harm family members. Instead, she encourages a focus on narratives that unite the family, empower children, and build cultural pride.

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