Abstract

This study explores the reactions of social work students in a course on trauma treatment and how those reactions changed over time. Consensual qualitative research methods were used to analyze 17 participant journals submitted at 4 times during the course. Findings indicate that students experienced a range of responses to traumatic material, including both positive and negative emotional, cognitive, behavioral, physical, and relational reactions. Student survivors of trauma reported reactions related to their own trauma. Although student reactions became less acute over time during the course, recommendations for the pedagogy of trauma are offered, including curriculum related to the management of vicarious and secondary trauma reactions as well as the development of evidence-based practices for self-care.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Patricia J. Shannon

Patricia J. Shannon is assistant professor and Emily Becher is a graduate research assistant at the University of Minnesota. Jennifer Simmelink-McCleary is assistant professor at Tulane University. Hyojin Im is assistant professor at Virginia Commonwealth University. Rachel E. Crook-Lyon is in private practice.

Jennifer Simmelink-McCleary

Patricia J. Shannon is assistant professor and Emily Becher is a graduate research assistant at the University of Minnesota. Jennifer Simmelink-McCleary is assistant professor at Tulane University. Hyojin Im is assistant professor at Virginia Commonwealth University. Rachel E. Crook-Lyon is in private practice.

Hyojin Im

Patricia J. Shannon is assistant professor and Emily Becher is a graduate research assistant at the University of Minnesota. Jennifer Simmelink-McCleary is assistant professor at Tulane University. Hyojin Im is assistant professor at Virginia Commonwealth University. Rachel E. Crook-Lyon is in private practice.

Emily Becher

Patricia J. Shannon is assistant professor and Emily Becher is a graduate research assistant at the University of Minnesota. Jennifer Simmelink-McCleary is assistant professor at Tulane University. Hyojin Im is assistant professor at Virginia Commonwealth University. Rachel E. Crook-Lyon is in private practice.

Rachel E. Crook-Lyon

Patricia J. Shannon is assistant professor and Emily Becher is a graduate research assistant at the University of Minnesota. Jennifer Simmelink-McCleary is assistant professor at Tulane University. Hyojin Im is assistant professor at Virginia Commonwealth University. Rachel E. Crook-Lyon is in private practice.

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