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Hi Jarrod:

Jarrod asks: "Why is written exposure so potent in desensitizing events? Isn't it true that written exposure is being validated by research for not only emotional problems, but also health problems?
What is the history of written exposure. Is it another method that has come down through the ages."

Jarrod written exposure is an outstanding method for desensitizing events for a number of reasons:

*The act of speedily writing out event details makes it easier to recall events and reduces censoring.

*Writing naturally helps us disidentify with what we're writing about. It makes written exposure a bit more comfortable than other forms of exposure. Writing feels safe for many participants. They are not over-identified with their strong emotions. Observing emotions instead of being "in" them helps with desensitizing or integrating emotions. Writing out emotions from this disidentified observer perspective helps bring acceptance on.

*The act of writing limits emotional resistance because it somewhat ties up our thinking/emotional resistance.

*Writing itself mysterously helps integrate emotional material. It appears both sides of the brain are activated during emotional writing.

*Reading what we've written creates ludic trance a slow brainwave situation where emotional integration is more likely to take place.

"Isn't it true that written exposure is being validated by research for not only emotional problems, but also health problems?"

It's true that written exposure/emotional writing is research validated not only for emotional challenges, but also health problems. Studies seem to indicate a general enhancement of immune function and a reduction of stress's physiological indicators.

"What is the history of written exposure. Is it another method that has come down through the ages."

Folks have been journaling and keeping diaries for centuries. No doubt some persons have repetitively written out emotionally charged situations from start to finish in their journals and diaries and experienced relief and new perspectives.

Take care, Steve