An Association Between Implementing Trauma-Informed Care and Staff Satisfaction

Authors

  • Travis W. Hales University at Buffalo, School of Social Work http://orcid.org/0000-0003-3408-6984
  • Thomas H. Nochajski University at Buffalo, School of Social Work
  • Susan A. Green University at Buffalo, School of Social Work
  • Howard K. Hitzel BestSelf Behavioral Health
  • Elizabeth Woike-Ganga BestSelf Behavioral Health

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18060/21299

Keywords:

Trauma-informed care, evidence, implementation, staff satisfaction

Abstract

Despite its widespread adoption there is limited research on the influence of trauma-informed care (TIC). The current study examined the impact of implementing TIC on the satisfaction of agency staff by comparing the results of a satisfaction survey taken in January of 2014, a month prior to the agency's implementation of TIC, and again twelve months later. As collaboration, empowerment, and self-care are primary components of a TIC organizational approach, its implementation was expected to increase staff satisfaction. Following the implementation of TIC, agency staff reported higher scores on all but one of the six satisfaction survey factors. Increases in staff satisfaction have been associated with better staff retention rates, increased organizational commitment and better performance. In consequence, TIC implementation is associated with increased staff satisfaction, and may positively influence organizational characteristics of significance to social service agencies. 

Author Biographies

Travis W. Hales, University at Buffalo, School of Social Work

PhD Candidate at the University at Buffalo's School of Social Welfare

 

Thomas H. Nochajski, University at Buffalo, School of Social Work

PhD, Research Professor

Co-Director of the University at Buffalo's Institute on Trauma and Trauma-Informed Care

Susan A. Green, University at Buffalo, School of Social Work

LCSW, Clinical Associate Professor

Co-Director of the University at Buffalo's Institute on Trauma and Trauma-Informed Care

Howard K. Hitzel, BestSelf Behavioral Health

PsyD, MPA

Elizabeth Woike-Ganga, BestSelf Behavioral Health

LCSW-R

BestSelf Behavioral Health

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Published

2017-09-24