Creating Conditions for Professional Development through a Trauma-Informed and Restorative Practice.

Area of Science:

• Social Work
• Nursing
• Psychology
• Trauma Studies

Background:

• Social work and nursing professionals frequently encounter individuals with trauma-related difficulties in emotional self-regulation and social behavior.
• Many professionals, including those with personal trauma histories, report inadequate preparedness for self-care and managing challenging interactions.
• Existing research highlights the need to address the deep-seated individual and structural causes of social injustice contributing to insecurity and trauma.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the impact of trauma-informed and restorative practices on social work and nursing professionals.
• To provide professionals with opportunities to reflect on and modify their practices through action research and restorative circles.
• To foster emotional safety and connection as foundational elements in professional practice.

Main Methods:

• Action research and a restorative circle process involving 29 social work and nursing students.
• Introduction to trauma-informed and restorative practices emphasizing emotional safety and connection.
• Facilitating reflection on professional practices within an equal and safe setting.

Main Results:

• Professionals demonstrated increased self-awareness and compassion.
• Enhanced emotional safety and stress tolerance in challenging communication scenarios were observed.
• Improved trauma understanding and personal growth were reported by participants.

Conclusions:

• A shift towards restorative and trauma-informed practices can significantly benefit professionals.
• These approaches can lead to improved interpersonal competence and overall well-being for both professionals and clients.
• Creating safe, reflective spaces is crucial for professional development in trauma care.