On Combat cover art

On Combat

The Psychology and Physiology of Deadly Conflict in War and in Peace

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On Combat

By: Dave Grossman, Loren W. Christensen
Narrated by: Dave Grossman
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About this listen

On Combat looks at what happens to the human body under the stresses of deadly battle and the impact on the nervous system, heart, breathing, visual and auditory perception, memory -- then discusses new research findings as to what measure warriors can take to prevent such debilitations so they can stay in the fight, survive, and win. A brief, but insightful look at history shows the evolution of combat, the development of the physical and psychological leverage that enables humans to kill other humans, followed by an objective examination of domestic violence in America. The authors reveal the nature of the warrior, brave men and women who train their minds and bodies to go to that place from which others flee.

After examining the incredible impact of a few true warriors in battle, On Combat presents new and exciting research as to how to train the mind to become inoculated to stress, fear and even pain. Expanding on Lt. Col. Grossman's popular "bulletproof mind" presentation, the audiobook explores what really happens to the warrior after the battle, and shows how emotions, such as relief and self-bame, are natural and healthy ways to feel about having survived combat. A fresh and highly informative look at post traumatic stress syndrome (PTSD) details how to prevent it, how to survive it should it happen, how to come out of it stronger, and how to help others who are experiencing it.

On Combat looks at the critical importance of the debriefing, when warriors gather after the battle to share what happened, critique, learn from each other and, for some, begin to heal from the horror. The listener will learn a highly effective breathing technique that not only steadies the warrior's minds and body before and during the battle, but can also be used afterwards as a powerful healing device to help separate the emotion from the memory. Concluding chapters discuss the Christian/Judeo view of killing in combat and offers powerful insight that Lt. Col. Grossman has imparted over the years to help thousands of warriors understand and come to terms with their actions in battle. A final chapter encourages warriors to always fight for justice, not vengeance, so that their remaining days will be healthy ones filled with pride for having performed their duty morally and ethically. This information-packed audiobook ploughs new ground in its vision, in its extensive new research and startling findings, and in its powerful, revealing quotes and anecdotes from top people in the warrior community, people who have faced the toxic environment of deadly combat and now share their wisdom to help others.

On Combat is easy to understand and powerful in scope. It is a true classic that will be listened to by new and veteran warriors for years to come.
Military Psychology Psychology & Mental Health Social Psychology & Interactions Warrior Survival
All stars
Most relevant
If you are currently serving, or intend to serve in the police force or military this is a must read. Ditto for the family of these people.

Essential for service men/woman

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For anyone in the Police or military, this book is a must-read. This comes with my highest recommendation.

Excellent deep drive - A+

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This is by far the best way to start understanding the mind of the warrior, soldier, police officer, fire, ambulance, social worker or anyone dealing with the issue of human on human violence (physical, mental, social or emotional).

Colonel Grossman has covered a lot of issues I had previously not fully understood, however his analogies make it easy for even a layman to grasp.

Definitely recommending to all of my friends who are still in the army, and their families and friends to help them understand why we do what we do every day.

A must read for anyone dealing with "warriors"

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This book has opened my mind and eyes to the experiences I've had. Just Brilliant.

Brilliant and must read for anyone.

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A very insightful book with a very straight to the point approach to the teachings.

There were a number of times he refers to another book, Deadly Force Encounters, which in part made me think maybe I should listen to that book instead of/or after this.

Very insightful

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