Abstract:
A review of trauma literature indicated that in comparison to PTSD there is very little
research into the effects of secondary trauma, especially with regards to trauma
workers. The present study explored the psychological impact of trauma workers who
work with victims of violent crimes. Both Figley’s (1995) trauma transmission model
and Dutton and Rubenstein (1995) ecological model were used to develop a refined
trauma model for trauma workers in South Africa, which formed the theoretical basis
for the current research. This model looked at the relationships between specific key
variables (level of exposure to traumatic material, empathy, and level of perceived
social support) and secondary traumatic stress, and their interrelationship. In the
present study relevant information was gathered from volunteer trauma workers
(N=64) using self-report measures. Data was analysed using the following statistical
techniques: Descriptive statistics, Pearson’s Correlation Coefficients, Two
Independent Sample T-Test, and a Moderated Multiple Regression. Results indicated
that the trauma workers, to some extent, experienced symptoms of secondary
traumatic stress. In addition, it was found that previous exposure to traumatic
material, level of empathy, and level of perceived social support have a significant
relationship with secondary traumatic stress. Social support was not found to have a
moderating effect, but empathy emerged as a consistent moderator between the
trauma workers previous exposure to traumatic material and secondary traumatic
stress. Results also revealed that ones qualification made no difference in the
development of secondary traumatic stress. In summary, this study expanded on
knowledge into the effects of criminal violence in South Africa, particularly with
concern to trauma workers, a population often ignored. This study was considered to
be a contribution to trauma literature as it provides much needed empirical evidence.
