In the life of a child: Shocked by shame
This past week I had the privilege of facilitating a role-play workshop called "Life in Limbo"; an excellent tool that we have used to train up over 300 people in Guatemala over the past 12 months. This was my 10th time facilitating, and each time I learn so much about human nature, specifically about human emotion. I have seen grown men and women throw themselves on the floor, hide under tables, weep inconsolably, run out of the room and burst into uncontrollable laughter. Yesterday I had 30 psychologists and social workers who work in children's courts throughout Guatemala and gained even more insight into the complexity of human response to uncomfortable or stressful situations. A particular social worker assumed the role of a 4 year-old child and while she intended to respond as such, the behaviour of this woman was unlike anything I have ever seen even in the most hyperactive and defiant child. As I tried to instruct and lead her through the steps of the activity she...