Bruce D. Perry Books

Dr. Bruce D. Perry is a neuroscientist and child psychiatrist. He’s also the principal of the Neurosequential Network and senior fellow of the Child Trauma Academy. His previous best-selling books include The Boy Who Was Raised as a Dog and Born For Love.

Oprah Winfrey is the renowned host and supervising producer of The Oprah Winfrey Show. As an activist and philanthropist, she’s worked tirelessly to bring attention to experiences of trauma and sexual abuse, and advocate for survivors. 

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 Books: What Happened to You? by Bruce D. Perry and Oprah Winfrey

What Happened to You?

Bruce D. Perry and Oprah Winfrey
Conversations on Trauma, Resilience, and Healing
4.3 (749 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
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What's What Happened to You? about?

What Happened to You? (2021) is an in-depth exploration of trauma and how it affects the brain. Long before we can make rational sense of traumatic experiences, they become etched into our neural circuits. They influence how we respond to stress, form relationships, and make meaning. Unfortunately, trauma is often misunderstood. By understanding trauma as both a brain issue and a societal issue, we can start to support trauma survivors with the tools they need to heal. 

Who should read What Happened to You??

  • Survivors of trauma 
  • Teachers, caregivers, and medical practitioners
  • Psychology buffs interested in trauma’s effects on the brain

2
 Books: The Boy Who Was Raised as a Dog by Bruce D. Perry & Maia Szalavitz

The Boy Who Was Raised as a Dog

Bruce D. Perry & Maia Szalavitz
And Other Stories from a Child Psychiatrist's Notebook – What Traumatized Children Can Teach Us About Loss, Love, and Healing
4.3 (32 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Boy Who Was Raised as a Dog about?

The Boy Who Was Raised as a Dog (2006) presents a series of case studies to explore the profound impacts of childhood trauma – and the resilience and adaptability of the human brain. Through the diverse experiences of young people who have faced unimaginable abuse and neglect, it illustrates how innovative therapeutic approaches can facilitate healing and recovery.

Who should read The Boy Who Was Raised as a Dog?

  • Mental health professionals interested in how trauma impacts child development – and effective therapeutic interventions
  • Social workers wishing to better understand child trauma and its repercussions to support at-risk children and families
  • Parents or caregivers who want to know the minds of their children (and people in general)

What's Born for Love about?

Born for Love is a thought-provoking book that delves into the science of human emotions and connections. Written by renowned psychiatrist Bruce D. Perry and journalist Maia Szalavitz, it explores the importance of empathy in our lives and how early experiences shape our capacity for love and compassion. Drawing on real-life stories and scientific research, the book offers valuable insights into the role of empathy in creating a more caring and connected society.

Who should read Born for Love?

  • Parents and caregivers who want to understand and support their children's emotional development
  • Educators and professionals working with children and adolescents
  • Individuals interested in the neuroscience and psychology of empathy and human connection

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 Books: Born for Love by Bruce D. Perry

Born for Love

Bruce D. Perry

What's Born for Love about?

Born for Love explores the power of empathy and its crucial role in human development. Drawing on scientific research and real-life stories, Bruce D. Perry and Maia Szalavitz reveal how our capacity for empathy is shaped from infancy and why it is essential for building healthy relationships and a compassionate society. This thought-provoking book offers insights into the profound impact of empathy and provides valuable guidance for nurturing it in ourselves and others.

Who should read Born for Love?

  • Parents and caregivers who want to understand and support their child's emotional development

  • Teachers and educators looking to create a more empathetic and nurturing learning environment

  • Therapists and mental health professionals seeking insights into the impact of early experiences on brain development