Should we be using trigger warnings?

Should we be using trigger warnings?

Author: BBC Radio 4 November 4, 2025 Duration: 28:23

This programme may contain information that you might find to be evidence-based and informative...

Trigger warnings are everywhere.

They’re used in the news, on social media and in academia to flag potentially distressing material so we can emotionally prepare ourselves or avoid it.

But what if they actually make things worse?

We interrogate a growing body of evidence that suggests they aren’t working in the way they are intended. So should we still be using trigger warnings?

Also this week, we’ll hear from psychotherapist and author Stephen Grosz who'll share what he has learnt about love and gift-giving from four decades of conversations with his patients.

And Daryl O’Connor, Professor of Psychology at the University of Leeds, joins us in the studio and brings news of a study on links between discrimination and inflammation in the body, and why carrying out acts of kindness for others comes with benefits for you...

Presenter: Claudia Hammond Producer: Gerry Holt Content editor: Ilan Goodman Production coordinator: Jana Holesworth Studio engineer: Bob Nettles


Ever wondered why we do the things we do, or how our thoughts truly shape our reality? All in the Mind, from BBC Radio 4, moves beyond simple self-help to explore the intricate workings of the human psyche. Guided by Claudia Hammond, each episode is a thoughtful journey into the latest research and evidence from the worlds of psychology, neuroscience, and mental health. You'll hear from leading scientists, clinicians, and sometimes people with direct personal experience, all contributing to a deeper understanding of topics like memory, emotion, resilience, and perception. This isn't just a theoretical discussion; it's about connecting scientific discovery to the everyday experiences that define us. The conversations in this podcast are designed to be accessible yet deeply informative, stripping away jargon to reveal what the evidence really tells us about our minds. Whether it's unpacking the mechanics of anxiety, the science of happiness, or the mysteries of consciousness, Claudia's nuanced approach provides clarity and insight. Tune in for a compelling blend of personal stories and rigorous science that challenges assumptions and illuminates the hidden forces behind our behaviour. This is a space for curious listeners who want to look beneath the surface of thought and feeling, discovering the fascinating evidence that explains how we all operate.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

All in the Mind
Podcast Episodes
The sudden rise in teenagers developing tics during the pandemic [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 28:04
A new study highlights the increase in the number of teenagers - especially girls - developing involuntary physical and vocal tics during the pandemic. Neurologist Professor Jon Stone from the University of Edinburgh exp…
Can Mental Health Awareness have unintended consequences? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 32:33
Mental health awareness campaigns have reduced stigma and changed attitudes to mental illness, but has the messaging also led to unintended consequences? With the help of a panel consisting of mental health campaigner Ja…
Devices to aid our memories and safe music for driving [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 28:09
With busy lifestyles many turn to devices for aide memoires. Claudia discusses new findings with Dr Sam Gilbert who studies so called ‘offloading’ and gives tips on how best to remember the important things. And a visit…
Negotiating a crisis [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 28:03
Claudia meets Professor Elizabeth Stokoe author of 'Crisis Talks' whose research shows when preventing a suicide, that words really do matter and can save lives during a crisis. Through analysing real time recordings of…
Steven Pinker [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 28:03
Claudia Hammond meets cognitive scientist and author Steven Pinker. He describes the times we are living in as a pandemic of poppycock and has advice on how to be more rational.
The Psychology of Regret [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 39:49
Claudia Hammond explores the psychology of regret with an audience at the Cheltenham Science Festival. What role do rueful thoughts on "what might have been" play in our lives? Is regret a wasted emotion or does it have…
Breastfeeding Trauma and the Psychology of Awkwardness [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 28:55
When breastfeeding goes wrong some women feel guilty that they have failed to do what should come naturally. But Professor Amy Brown from Swansea University says those with the most severe physical and emotional impact c…