A phenomenological study of vicarious trauma experienced by caregivers working with children in a place of safety in the Western Cape [Thesis]
Date
2005
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Publisher
University of the Western Cape
Abstract
Introduction: In past years the occurrence of vicarious traumatization has created great concern within psychiatric nursing practice worldwide (Stead & Dawning 1998). The literature review contributes to the understanding of vicarious trauma by providing evidence of it’s widespread existence, and the impact on the therapist’s personal and professional lives. A need for further research was highlighted. The aim of the study: was to investigate vicarious trauma experienced by caregivers working with children in residential care, who were victims of sexual abuse or assault. The objectives of the study were: to determine the occurrence of vicarious trauma among caregivers working with victims of sexual abuse or assault; to describe the experiences of caregivers working with children who were victims of sexual abuse; to describe the caregiver’s experience of staff support within the facility. The research was conducted at a place of safety within the Western Cape, which provides 24-hour care to the children of both sexes under the age of 7 years who were exposed to sexual abuse or assault, neglect or abandonment. Purposive sampling of nine caregivers was done. The inclusion criteria were: participants (both permanent and contract workers) providing direct care to the children. The study adopted a qualitative method, which focused on exploring the subjective experiences or views of the participants regarding the topic. Semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted (Appendix 4). Data were analyzed using content analysis. The conceptual framework: crisis theory guided the description and interpretation of the data. Findings revealed that the online caregivers experienced the following: Emotional symptoms: frustration, anger and sense of helplessness due to lack of support from management, lack of communication between management and staff, hearing and seeing the plight and history of children. Physical symptoms: tight chest, headaches and flu symptoms and low energy levels. Impact of trauma on their personal and work relationships: The participants experienced work-related tiredness and a feeling of being emotionally drained. This left them vulnerable and less emotionally available to their colleagues. Support at Work: the participants experienced minimal support from management. Support at Home: participants experienced sufficient support from the families, friends and church in the community. The participants made suggestions regarding improvement of support to decrease the physical and emotional symptoms and to improve their effectiveness at work. The participants proposed the following supportive measures: a good, safe. (Author Abstract
Description
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Keywords
child abuse, secondary traumatic stress, compassion fatigue, International Resources, South Africa, research
Citation
Booysen, B. P. R. (2005). A phenomenological study of vicarious trauma experienced by caregivers working with children in a place of safety in the Western Cape. Cape Town, SA: University of the Western Cape, 88 p.