Navigating Trauma Tourism in Social Work Study Abroad

ABSTRACT

While education abroad can facilitate experiential learning, when travel is focused around collective trauma, academic tours may exacerbate harm. In this article, we describe our process of seeking to be accountable for the role of our course, which focuses on the 30-year conflict, known as the Troubles that took place in Northern Ireland, in communities that have been affected by traumatic structural violence and interpersonal conflict. We discuss the risks of perpetuating objectification and exploitation, and of mediating strategies for building reciprocity and solidarity. Special attention must be given to these issues to facilitate just and ethical learning experiences that model appropriate professional development for social work students.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Natalie D. Pope

Natalie D. Pope is an Associate Professor at the University of Kentucky, College of Social Work. Allison Gibson is an Associate Professor at the University of Kentucky, College of Social Work. Kalea Benner is an Associate Professor at the University of Kentucky, College of Social Work. Lindsay Littrell is a PhD Student at the University of Kentucky, College of Social Work.