WWI Speaker Series
Title: "The Psychological Effects of World War I -'Shell Shock' and its Legacy Today"
Dr. Jason Crouthamel, Professor of History, Grand Valley State University
This presentation will focus on the history of psychological trauma ('shell shock') in the First World War and its long-term legacy. The talk will give an overview of the medical diagnosis of 'shell shock' in World War I, its cultural significance in challenging society's assumptions about masculinity and the combat experience, and the social and political significance of psychological wounds for veterans' health care and the memory of the war. We will also explore how the experience with 'shell shock' in the First World War influenced how psychologically traumatized American soldiers were diagnosed and treated in WWII (for 'combat fatigue'). The mental wounds of 1914-1918 are also essential to understanding the diagnosis of PTSD in the wake of the Vietnam War, treatment and recovery issues for veterans of Iraq/Afghanistan, and challenges facing returning veterans (including stigmatization, long-term care) and the image of psychologically disabled men and women in contemporary American society. Media, archival footage, and letters and diaries by soldiers from the First World War will be included in this interactive lecture and discussion.
This series is presented in partnership with the Barry County Historical Society. All talks will be given at Historic Charlton Park in the Stone Building on the First Floor at 6 pm. There is no cost to attend, although donations are welcome.
