The idea of banning trigger warnings has been popping up in the media quite a bit lately. The University of Chicago sent out a letter to its incoming freshman, stating on no uncertain terms that the school would not be issuing these warnings, saying students are "encouraged to speak, write, listen, challenge and learn without fear of censorship." The letter has been reported on by various news sources, including NPR and The New York Times, and has inspired conversations about the pros and cons of trigger warnings and safe spaces all over social media.
Those opposed to trigger warnings (which are simply statements that certain topics will be discussed at a later date, and nothing more) are often heard using the argument that “the real world doesn’t have warnings, so why should schools?” And while that point does have merit, my first thoughts were of someone very close to me who needs trigger warnings nearly every day of his life.
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My younger brother Jonas is 8 years old and has Autism. As a result of his disorder, he struggles with intense anxiety. His fears include dogs, cats, butterflies, unfamiliar foods and unfamiliar situations. If we go to the park and someone is walking their dog, or an insect flies in his line of sight, his anxiety takes over, and an otherwise lovely day could potentially be ruined. We give Jonas every ounce of preparation we can, and though sometimes this helps the situation, he still has a profound fear when faced with his triggers.
Obviously, my 8-year-old brother will not be attending the University of Chicago any time soon. And for the time being, his family and teachers can protect him and warn him about anything he perceives as a threat. But I wonder if anyone who preaches so heartily against trigger warnings has considered that not everyone experiences the world in the same way. I’m not saying that we should censor curriculum, cancel guest speakers, or excuse students from subjects they may find upsetting, but I fail to see the harm in giving advance notice of sensitive material. For college professors, this could be as simple as handing out a detailed syllabus.
While it’s tempting to lump all of us who see the merit of trigger warnings together as “special snowflakes, easily offended and fragile,” I’d like to raise a different perspective. People with intense anxiety, whether it’s caused by autism, trauma, an anxiety disorder or anything else, struggle every day of their lives. Their minds are working against them daily. There’s enough to worry and obsess over already—why should classrooms and lectures be yet another unpredictable stressor?
