Recent headlines are unearthing immense collective trauma. Some folks are finally telling their stories of sexual assault after years of keeping the experiences to themselves. It only makes sense that trauma stored within our bodies can have physical effects.
Amber Field – an SF-based vocal coach, musician, and artivist – pays careful attention to these somatic effects in their work with sound and movement.
Field says the term “DARVO” – coined by Jennifer Freyd – is a helpful approach to thinking about Kavanaugh and the culture of sexual assault.
DARVO stands for “Deny, Attack, and Reverse Victim and Offender.” In essence, offenders often deflect responsibility by ping-ponging the blame back onto the victim. This is where self-blame and internalized trauma can grow. But by identifying the process and understanding how to detach and release themselves from this type of emotional manipulation, victims and people surrounding them can find ways to move forward. Field believes that physical movement and sound are incredibly helpful in releasing this trauma. “DARVO was an enlightening approach that gave me insight into the experience of women,” Field told New Sincerity. “And within our culture this was an opportunity to decide where to go next.” Where do we start? We can begin to heal by shirking this trauma, manifesting a strong voice, and finally inhabiting our bodies fully.
