Heuristic study of trauma therapists and vicarious trauma
Date
2001
Authors
Dauncey, Leisa Michelle
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Abstract
Trauma therapists are the recipients of client survivor stories. The ongoing exposure to survivor stories can lead to similar trauma symptoms as those experienced by the survivor themselves. This experience can be referred to as vicarious traumatization (VT). Ameliorating these affects is essential for the health of the therapist and for the future clients of the VT therapist. This study used a qualitative heuristic methodology. Five-trauma therapists were interviewed as to their experience of VT and helpful ways to ameliorate the affects.
Vicarious traumatization was identified as impacting all of the research participants. Alterations in world view schemas, specifically around the world being a safe place was noted as being vulnerable to VT. Research participants identified the trauma agency as having a substantial affect on their experience of VT. Personal history, resiliencies, spirituality, and self care strategies also affected their experience of VT.