The Healing Power of Stories: Narrative Theory and Narrative Practice
SM 510M.3
Subject & Catalog Number
Course Information
Description
Annie Brewster, MD '99 and Jonathan Adler, PhD will co-teach this elective, which will offer students a solid foundation in the social science research on the health benefits of narrative through readings and didactic sessions, as well as experience working directly with patients and their loved ones, under supervision, to apply this knowledge. It is relevant for students pursuing any specialty.
The didactic component of the elective includes assigned readings drawn from the interdisciplinary literature on narrative and health, with an emphasis on the empirical social science literature, writing exercises, and a twice-weekly two-hour seminar.
The applied work will occur in collaboration with Health Story Collaborative (HSC), a nonprofit organization founded by Dr. Brewster with the goal of using storytelling for therapeutic purposes. Elective participants will spend time working with patient partners to help them craft their stories of illness and healing using Health Story Collaborative techniques, guided by Dr. Brewster and Dr. Adler. The course will culminate in a live storytelling event showcasing the patient stories.
Not Available for Cross Registration
Open to International Visiting Students
