Description:
It is easy to identify our immediate responses to a traumatic event in our lives - we may be shocked, saddened, or hurt. Indirect or vicarious trauma can be much harder to identify, but it can carry a significant impact.
Content:
In the homeless services field, we are constantly in communication with people who have experienced a range of personal traumatic events. Their experiences are often very powerful and impact their emotions as well as ours. Over time, vicarious exposure to trauma can have a profound effect and - like burnout - is a leading contributor to staff turnover.
This articles provides information about the effects of vicarious trauma and how an organization may help its staff to buffer the potential impact.
Type of Resource:
Journal
Date Issued:
2003
Journal Name:
Families in Society
Volume:
84
Issue:
4
Pages:
463-470
Source:
Alliance for Children and Families