Paper Tigers - Film Screening

EVENT DESCRIPTION: More than two decades ago, respected researchers, clinical physician Dr. Vincent Felitti and CDC epidemiologist Robert Anda, published the landmark Adverse Childhood Experiences Study. It revealed a troubling but irrefutable phenomenon: the more traumatic experiences the respondents had as children (such as physical and emotional abuse and neglect), the more likely they were to develop physical and mental health problems later in life. The results of the study painted a staggering portrait of the price our children are paying for growing up in unsafe environments, all the while adding fuel to the fire of some of society’s greatest challenges. Paper Tigers is a relevant and timely documentary that explores the impact of adverse childhood experiences on struggling teens. The documentary film is directed by James Redford and Executive Produced by Karen Pritzker.  It follows a year in the life of six students attending an alternative high school in Walla Walla, Washington, that has radically changed its approach to disciplining its students, and in the process has become a promising model for trauma-informed community care.  Armed with new science about how high doses of stress during childhood can get into our bodies, change our brains, and lead to lifelong health and social problems, teachers are helping to break the cycles of adversity in their students’ lives. 

ABOUT THE SPEAKERS

A panel of professionals will present their responses to the film in reference to their work supporting people who have experienced complex life trauma.  This will aid a reflective discussion about the film with contributions from the wider viewing audience.  The themes guiding discussion will include: feelings evoked by the film, parallels with services working locally to reduce adverse life events and support those affected, as well as the wider social relevance of the film.

DATE AND TIME

5.30-7pm Film Screening

7pm-7.15 Tea and Coffee

7.15-8pm Panel discussion and audience reflections

VENUE

Lecture Theatre OG012, Keir Building, Queen’s University Belfast, Stranmillis Road, Belfast BT95BN

REFRESHMENTS

Tea and coffee will be available during the break.

INFORMATION

Attendees are advised that whilst the film is unrated, adult themes are discussed including abuse, substance misuse and gang activity.  There is also some profane language.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS  

This event has been organised by Dr Bridget Tiernan and Dr Ciara Downes, Scaffold Consultation and Therapy Service, Southern Trust, in association with the Division of Clinical Psychology and the Northern Ireland Branch of the British Psychological Society.

LEARN MORE

ACE INTERFACE                               www.aceinterface.com/

Child Trauma Academy                  www.childtrauma.org

ACE Study                                          www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/acestudy/

ACEs Connection                             www.acesconnection.com