ABSTRACT

The purpose of this article1 is to familiarize the readers of this Special Issue of Smith College Studies in Social Work with fundamental theoretical concepts that are elaborated and deepened in the following articles in the journal. We informed our authors that we would provide the introductory framework to neurobiology so as to give them the flexibility to focus with more specificity on their respective topic areas. The dizzying pace of development and advancing literature in a number of converging fields makes the study of neurobiology and clinical work an exciting and daunting task. We recognize that literature from the broad fields of attachment theory, infant research, trauma theory, cognitive neuroscience, relational theory, relational analytic trauma theory, and nonlinear dynamic systems theory (to name a few) are converging in a synergistic and interesting manner. These theories underscore that human beings are resilient and that change is possible across the life cycle, even if individuals have experienced unfortunate traumatic beginnings. We use the term neurobiology to discuss current research findings on brain structure and function(s). We agree with Louis Cozolino (2006) when he suggested that there is no such thing as a “single brain” and that an individual’s brain and mind functions, which effect a multitude of intrapsychic and interpersonal factors, are fundamentally shaped in interaction with other people. There are many implications to this statement-this article illuminates some of these implications, especially as they inform clinical work based on the understanding that the treatment relationship is a central component of change in brain functioning that leads to therapeutic change with a diverse range of clients. The purpose of this article is twofold. First, we outline some “brain basics” that give the reader foundational knowledge of neurobiology. Second, we briefly discuss the importance of “relationship” as the foundation for change in brain function.