After Brown Shooting, Community Seeks Healing Through 'Dignity Neuroscience'

A new approach called 'dignity neuroscience' offers a path to reclaiming agency, belonging, and human rights in the wake of trauma.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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In the aftermath of the December 13th shooting at Brown University, many in the Providence community are struggling to find a way forward. A new framework called 'dignity neuroscience' is being explored as a means of healing, as it connects human rights with brain science across five key domains: agency, freedom from fear, freedom from want, uniqueness, and unconditional belonging. This lens provides a new perspective on the attack as a profound violation of intrinsic human dignity, while also offering steps individuals can take to reclaim these fundamental rights and begin the process of recovery.

Why it matters

The Brown University shooting was a devastating event that shook the local community and raised profound questions about safety, human rights, and the impact of trauma on the brain. Applying a 'dignity neuroscience' approach can help provide a path forward, empowering individuals to reconnect with their agency, autonomy, and sense of belonging - all of which were violated by the attack.

The details

The 'dignity neuroscience' framework examines the shooting through the lens of five key human rights: agency and self-determination; freedom from fear; freedom from want; uniqueness; and unconditional belonging. The assault was a violation of each of these domains, impacting brain regions involved in learning, emotion, stress, and overall wellbeing. To reclaim these rights, the article suggests concrete steps like trying new activities, engaging with the community, supporting education, and reaffirming one's inherent worth and value.

  • The Brown University shooting occurred on December 13, 2026.

The players

Brown University

The Ivy League university where the shooting took place.

Providence, Rhode Island

The city where Brown University is located and where the community is grappling with the aftermath of the shooting.

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What they’re saying

“Reclaiming our rights and agency, every day, is a way we can get through this.”

— Tara White, Author (providencejournal.com)

What’s next

The article does not mention any specific next steps with definite and predictable dates.

The takeaway

The 'dignity neuroscience' framework provides a holistic approach to healing in the wake of trauma, empowering individuals to reconnect with their fundamental human rights and reclaim their sense of agency, belonging, and self-determination - all of which were violated by the devastating attack on the Brown University community.