Common Elements Across Evidence-Based Trauma Treatment: Discovery and Implications

Authors

  • Virginia C. Strand Fordham University
  • Susan Hansen Fordham University
  • Deborah Courtney Fordham University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18060/3052

Keywords:

Trauma treatment, evidence-based practice, common elements

Abstract

The social work profession is facing a critical gap in its provision of effective services to an increasingly large number of clients who are affected by trauma. To explore for the presence of common components in evidence-based trauma treatments, a qualitative content analysis of 8 trauma treatment manuals was undertaken. Analysis resulted in the identification of 35 Intervention Objectives and 59 Practice Element codes. These were further organized into nine domains: trauma assessment, safety, engagement, attachment, core treatment interventions, attention to the social context, trauma processing, post trauma growth, and therapist self-care. Future work for the profession may involve synthesizing and integrating what has already been learned, and translating that knowledge into the classroom. Significantly, three domains which stress activities with the client in their social context were found to be common to trauma treatments, including safety promoting activities. Implications for social work education, practice, policy, and research are discussed.

Author Biographies

Virginia C. Strand, Fordham University

Professor Graduate School of Social Service Co-Director, National Center for Social Work Trauma Education and Workforce Development

Susan Hansen, Fordham University

Doctoral Candidate, Fordham University Graduate School of Social Service

Deborah Courtney, Fordham University

Doctoral Candidate, Fordham University Graduate School of Social Service

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Published

2013-03-12

Issue

Section

Articles