The Essential 6 Trauma-Informed Principles: What Every Professional Needs to Know
Trauma is an experience that can have a profound and long-lasting impact on a person’s life. Whether it occurs as a result of abuse, neglect, violence, racism, or any other form of trauma, it can affect the way we think, feel, and behave. As professionals, it is essential to understand the trauma-informed principles to help individuals heal from their traumatic experiences.
What are the Six Trauma-Informed Principles?
The six trauma-informed principles are safety, trustworthiness, choice, collaboration, empowerment, and cultural humility. Let’s take a closer look at each principle:
Safety
Safety is the most crucial aspect of trauma-informed care. It involves creating physical and emotional safety for individuals who have experienced trauma. This principle also means that professionals should not re-traumatize individuals through their actions or words. They should make individuals feel safe, comfortable, and respected.
Trustworthiness
Trustworthiness is all about keeping promises and being reliable. Professionals need to create a trustful and respectful environment where individuals feel free to share their experiences and feelings. This principle requires professionals to keep their word and be transparent in their actions and communications.
Choice
Choice is giving individuals the power to make their own decisions and choices. Professionals need to provide individuals with options to choose from by respecting their right to make decisions and honor their choices. This principle promotes respect, dignity, and autonomy.
Collaboration
Collaboration is working together with individuals, family members, and other professionals to meet the needs of individuals who have experienced trauma. This principle requires professionals to engage in open communication, share information, and involve individuals in the decision-making process.
Empowerment
Empowerment is the process of helping individuals develop the skills, knowledge, and confidence to make positive changes in their lives. Professionals need to help individuals build resilience, self-esteem, and self-efficacy. This principle puts emphasis on the strengths of individuals and helps them take charge of their lives.
Cultural Humility
Cultural humility is the principle of recognizing the impact of culture and diversity on an individual’s experiences and perceptions. This principle requires that professionals consider different cultures, values, and economic realities that influence individuals’ behaviors and attitudes. It necessitates sensitivity and respect for all individuals from different backgrounds.
Key Takeaways
In conclusion, the six trauma-informed principles are essential for professionals to help individuals who have experienced trauma. Safety and trustworthiness are primary principles that set the tone for the entire process. Choice, collaboration, empowerment, and cultural humility focus on building respectful and empowering relationships that promote individuals’ healing and growth. By applying these principles with individuals, professionals can create a safe and healing environment that promotes the individuals’ well-being and recovery.
