Title: The Connection Between Social Work and Secondary Trauma
Headings: The Connection Between Social Work and Secondary Trauma
The Connection Between Social Work and Secondary Trauma
Vicarious vs. Secondary Trauma in Social Work: What’s the Difference?
Examples of Vicarious and Secondary Trauma in Social Work
When Social Workers Experience Trauma
Signs of Secondary and Vicarious Trauma in Social Work
How to Manage, Treat, and Prevent Vicarious and Secondary Trauma
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Last Update: 02-12-2020

Content: It can happen suddenly, after a single exposure. Vicarious trauma happens when a person is exposed to the trauma of others on an ongoing basis. Over time, both secondary and vicarious trauma can cause compassion fatigue. People with compassion fatigue may feel numb and disconnected, struggle to empathize, and be less effective at supporting their clients. Examples of Vicarious and Secondary Trauma in Social Work
Secondary trauma appears suddenly. Anyone can experience it. For example, a person who witnesses a natural disaster or who sees someone else get into a car wreck can face secondary trauma. In a social work context, a single session with a traumatized person may trigger symptoms of secondary trauma. This might happen when: A social worker listens to a client’s story of being raped, assaulted, or abused.