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Vicarious Traumatization: Potential Hazards and Interventions for Disaster and Trauma Workers

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  28 June 2012

Kathleen M. Palm ,
Melissa A. Polusny  and
Victoria M. Follette
Kathleen M. Palm*
Affiliation:
Brown Medical School and Butler Hospital, Providence, RI, USA
Melissa A. Polusny
Affiliation:
Minneapolis Veterans Administration Medical Center and University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA
Victoria M. Follette
Affiliation:
University of Nevada, Reno, Nevada, USA
*
Addictions Research, Butler Hospital, 345 Blackstone Blvd, Providence, RI 02906USA E-mail: [email protected]
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Abstract

Disaster and trauma workers often disregard their own reactions and needs when focusing on caring for those directly exposed to traumatic events. This article discusses the concept of vicarious traumatization, a form of post-traumatic stress response sometimes experienced by those who indirectly are exposed to traumatic events. It includes an examination of how vicarious trauma reactions are experienced across different professions, and suggestions on how to limit or prevent vicarious traumatization. The authors review self-care strategies as well as training and organizational considerations that may be beneficial for individuals and organizations to address.

Keywords

disaster workersjob-related stressjournalistsmental health professionalsnatural disasterspost-traumatic stress reactionssecondary traumatizationterrorismvicarious traumatization
Type
Special Reports
Information
Prehospital and Disaster Medicine , Volume 19 , Special Issue 1: Psychosocial Themes , March 2004 , pp. 73 - 78
Copyright
Copyright © World Association for Disaster and Emergency Medicine 2004

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