Professionals' Perceptions of Vicarious Trauma From Working With Victims of Sexual Trauma
Abstract
Professionals who work with victims of sexual trauma frequently experience emotional
and psychological stressors that affect their everyday life. Vicarious traumatization is an
occupational risk among helping professionals, but it is not known how this phenomenon
can be identified and minimized among professionals who work with victims of sexual
trauma. The purpose of this qualitative narrative study was to explore the personal
experiences of licensed and nonlicensed professionals who work with female victims of
sexual trauma. Constructivist self-development theory and the traumagenic dynamics
model provided the framework for the study. The research questions focused on the
evidence of vicarious trauma among participants, the skills and techniques used to
minimize the risk of vicarious trauma, and the influence of vicarious traumatization on
helping professionals. Data were collected through semistructured interviews with 8
helping professionals in the Southern United States. Findings from data coding and theme
analysis indicated that (a) professionals experience psychological and emotional risks in
trauma work, (b) establishing boundaries and implementing self-care techniques can
minimize vicarious trauma, and (c) consistent training and ongoing discussions about
vicarious trauma are essential to professionals who commit their lives to helping sexual
trauma victims. Findings may be used to increase awareness and education about
vicarious trauma among professionals who work with victims of sexual trauma, and to
develop techniques to minimize the risk of vicarious trauma.
Description
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Article
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Keywords
vicarious trauma, qualitative narrative study, counselors, therapist
Citation
Hunt, T. (2018). Professionals' Perceptions of Vicarious Trauma From Working With Victims of Sexual Trauma. (Doctoral dissertation). Walden University.