Locard's Theory
Locard's Theory of Transferrence is a cornerstone of forensic science and loosely states that anytime we're anywhere for some time, we transfer trace evidence to the new place in our wake (and take some stuff with us). If you watch CSI or most other crime shows, you'll see the protagonist finding the "smoking gun" piece of trace evidence that links the dastardly villain to the vile deed in question...and they put a tidy bow on the whole thing within the hour (including time for commercials). Like most things here at Family In The Arena, we explore topics that hopefully strengthen who you are as a family and get you generally closer to who you want to be as a family.
Today we'll explore the principle of Locard, not from the transference of trace evidence within your home (although, if you got little boys, I'm sure you can attest to the accuracy of the literal theory that stuff gets brought in and dropped all over your home), but more metaphorically when it comes to the "softer" parts of our family and home life. As we talk about our take of Locard's Theory, open your mind to think about what "trace evidence" gets dropped on you and what are you dropping around.![]() |
The 5.0 is en route. |
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Sometimes all you leave is the word "snake" to scare mom. |
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Doing some stress decon with a hike at Joshua Tree National Park. |
Before we depart, remember that much of what you leave behind ends up being contagious in a certain way. You all know someone that is perpetually optimistic and when you're in their presence you feel more optimistic. You probably also have some eternal little gray rain clouds like your own Eeyore Donkey in your circle that drains you when they come around. Think about which one you are choosing to be for those around you...are you pumping people up or deflating them? Just like you're picking up things from your interactions...you're also leaving them behind you that others pick up.
Hopefully, this article gives you a pause to think about how you might be picking up some metaphorical mud on your shoes and where else you're leaving it. Within the sections of your life, think carefully about what story the "trace evidence" you're leaving behind is telling those who stumble into it.
Call to Action:
- Make a list of three "trace evidence" items that you've noticed you pick up on a regular basis and bring home that take you further away from the desired end state you have for your family.
- 1 - ___________________
- 2 - ___________________
- 3 - ___________________
- Brainstorm on what to do to stop bringing home that baggage or life changes that help make you more "immune" to the "stickiness" of that particular trace evidence.
- Teach your kids that what they say, do, and who they associate with matters...that it's contagious. Try to hold each other accountable (and them call you out) when you're not aligned with who you're trying to become.
- Discussion: Consider what you/your family could/would/should (level of commitment) and start/stop/sustain (action)
Further Reading, Motivation, and References:
- Locard's Theory explained by a forensic scientist - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZSPRK5s1pH0
- Wikipedia on Contagious Behavior - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Behavioral_contagion#:~:text=Behavioral%20contagion%20is%20a%20form,they%20have%20been%20exposed%20to.
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