Read “Witty Ticcy Ray” by Oliver
Summarize the main points of this reading.Possible points to reflect upon for your reflection paper and for workshop discussion are:
1)Ray has been diagnosed with Tourette’s Disorder, a neurological disorder which also appears in the DSM-5. How would you distinguish a mental disorder from a physical disorder? What challenges did Ray face that individuals with other mental disorders might face?
2)What does Ray mean when he says “Suppose you could take away the tics. What would be left? I consist of tics-there is nothing else.”?
3)How does Oliver Sacks, a neurologist, look beyond his biological/medical paradigm in his treatment of Ray?
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I haven't read this article, but suggest you do so.
http://www.lrb.co.uk/v03/n05/oliver-sacks/witty-ticcy-ray
To summarize the main points of the reading "Witty Ticcy Ray" by Oliver Sacks, the story focuses on a man named Ray who has been diagnosed with Tourette's Disorder, a neurological disorder characterized by involuntary tics and verbal outbursts.
1) One of the main points of the reading is the distinction between mental disorders and physical disorders. While Tourette's Disorder falls under the DSM-5 as a mental disorder, it is important to consider that it has physical manifestations caused by neurological abnormalities. Distinguishing mental disorders from physical disorders can be challenging because the boundary between the mind and the body is often complex and interconnected. Ray, like individuals with other mental disorders, faced the challenge of living with symptoms that are stigmatized by society and misunderstood by others. This can lead to difficulties in social interactions, employment, and daily life functioning.
2) When Ray says, “Suppose you could take away the tics. What would be left? I consist of tics-there is nothing else,” he is highlighting his identity and sense of self as being intertwined with his tics. His tics have become a defining part of who he is, and he questions what would remain if they were to be taken away. This statement reflects the psychological impact of living with a chronic condition like Tourette's, where the symptoms can shape one's perception of self and identity.
3) Oliver Sacks, a neurologist, looks beyond the traditional biological and medical perspective in his treatment of Ray. He sees beyond the neurological abnormalities and focuses on understanding Ray's subjective experience. Sacks acknowledges the complexity of Tourette's Disorder and its impact on Ray's life, including the social and psychological aspects. By taking a holistic approach, considering Ray's individuality, and treating him with empathy and respect, Sacks demonstrates his willingness to go beyond the narrow view of neurological disorders as purely biomedical conditions.
In your reflection paper and workshop discussion, you can explore these points to gain a deeper understanding of mental and physical disorders, the impact of chronic conditions on individuals' lives, and the significance of holistic care and empathy in treating neurological disorders.