In Chris Lynch’s book, Hit Count, he looks at the controversial topic of concussions and other head injuries in organized football. During the course of the book, the main character Arlo, continuously gets hit and makes hits on the football field that surely take a toll on his body. Even with the concern of his mom and coaches, Arlo refuses to see that the way he plays football is dangerous. From a psychological perspective he is in complete denial of the peril he is putting his body through after every blow. To analyze this topic to its core one must look into the work of Lynch, as well as the medical evidence of head injuries in football.
In the story the main character is a high school football player named Arlo. The book follows him from …show more content…
Denial is defined as a psychological process by which painful truths are not admitted into an individual's consciousness (The Mayo Clinic). In Arlo’s case the painful truth he was blocking out was the game he fell in love with was hurting him. In everyday life there are many examples of common denial. The death of someone, an addiction, or even illness are common examples of situations that spur someone into denial. Denial is most common in emotionally driven situations or during an external or internal conflict. It can also be caused due to a situation that makes you feel vulnerable or threatens one’s control over a situation. It can range from denial of something miniscule to something very serious. In the book’s case one could argue that Arlo’s denial was a very serious case due to the physical effects it had on his brain. One can move past their denial by thinking things over amongst themselves, but if this does not work a mental health provider may also be seeked for assistance. Another way to get over denial is to talk to a loved one. In the story we see Arlo’s mom talk to him many times to try and help him, but he refused to listen. It can be overcome by individuals such as Arlo, but for the entire game of football to open their eyes to the issue may be a difficult
In the story the main character is a high school football player named Arlo. The book follows him from …show more content…
Denial is defined as a psychological process by which painful truths are not admitted into an individual's consciousness (The Mayo Clinic). In Arlo’s case the painful truth he was blocking out was the game he fell in love with was hurting him. In everyday life there are many examples of common denial. The death of someone, an addiction, or even illness are common examples of situations that spur someone into denial. Denial is most common in emotionally driven situations or during an external or internal conflict. It can also be caused due to a situation that makes you feel vulnerable or threatens one’s control over a situation. It can range from denial of something miniscule to something very serious. In the book’s case one could argue that Arlo’s denial was a very serious case due to the physical effects it had on his brain. One can move past their denial by thinking things over amongst themselves, but if this does not work a mental health provider may also be seeked for assistance. Another way to get over denial is to talk to a loved one. In the story we see Arlo’s mom talk to him many times to try and help him, but he refused to listen. It can be overcome by individuals such as Arlo, but for the entire game of football to open their eyes to the issue may be a difficult