Traumainformált

Traumainformált refers to an approach or perspective that recognizes the widespread impact of trauma and understands potential paths for responding to the associated challenges. It emphasizes that individuals, organizations, and communities may have been affected by trauma, influencing their behaviors, emotions, and relationships. This perspective suggests that rather than viewing certain behaviors as intentional or problematic, they may be survival responses to past traumatic experiences.

The core principle of being traumainformált is to avoid re-traumatization. This means being mindful of how interactions, policies, and environments might inadvertently trigger a person's trauma responses. Instead of asking "What's wrong with you?", a traumainformált approach encourages asking "What happened to you?". This shift in questioning promotes empathy and understanding.

Implementing a traumainformált approach involves several key elements. These include promoting safety, trustworthiness, choice, collaboration, and empowerment. Safety, both physical and psychological, is paramount. Trustworthiness involves clear communication and consistent boundaries. Offering choices respects an individual's autonomy. Collaboration fosters a sense of partnership, and empowerment helps individuals regain a sense of control and agency. This approach is applicable in various settings, including healthcare, education, social services, and community programs, aiming to create environments that support healing and resilience.