Why trigger warnings are needed in the postsecondary classroom: Opinion

With rising rates of mental health issues, existing trauma, and the use of multimedia in the classroom, trigger warnings are needed now more than ever, writes Michael Bugeja. Bugeja argues that instructors should respect students by warning them before showing content that will evoke a strong emotional response, and that past arguments against the use of warnings tend to affirm the instructor’s viewpoint instead of the student’s. The author describes the way that he compiled a list of potential trigger topics through discussion with students to determine where trigger warnings in the class are needed, and explains his use of an alternative study guide for students who do not wish to attend class. Inside Higher Ed (Editorial)