(UPDATED) EP110: The Psychology of Combat and (Lawful) Killing – A Conversation with West Point Professor Lt Col. Dave Grossman

EDITORIAL NOTE: In June of 2020, after a series of murders of black Americans including Breonna Taylor and George Floyd at the hands of law enforcement, a long-time listener raised a concern regarding this episode, particularly a shift in the conversation from the context of military combat to general policing.

Upon reflection, we note that while the discussion was meant to focus on the military, the guest makes reference to general policing in several analogies. In hindsight, clarification of the important distinctions between military combat and policing as well as a clear condemnation of unlawful killings by police is necessary. We are also reflecting on how we can better hold our guests accountable for the ideas they present in these interviews.

As editor and producer of The Thoughtful Counselor, I and our team of contributors are committed to critically reflecting on our work to ensure the messages we are promoting do not implicitly or explicitly support or justify systemic racism and police brutality.

- Mike Shook

Aaron speaks with Colonel Dave Grossman on the psychological effects of combat and lawful-killing and outlines the strengths that Veterans and service people possess that mental health professionals should seek to make use of throughout the therapeutic process.

For links from this conversation and the APA citation for this episode visit www.thethoughtfulcounselor.com