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Qualitative Exploration of Researcher Trauma and Researchers' Responses to Investigating Sexual Violence

NCJ Number
247824
Journal
Violence Against Women Volume: 20 Issue: 1 Dated: January 2014 Pages: 95-117
Author(s)
Jan Coles; Jill Astbury; Elizabeth Dartnall; Shazneen Limjerwala
Date Published
January 2014
Length
23 pages
Annotation

Vicarious trauma can be a problem for those who work and research in areas where clients or participants are survivors of sexual violence.

Abstract

Vicarious trauma can be a problem for those who work and research in areas where clients or participants are survivors of sexual violence. The aim of this study was to explore the trauma experiences of sexual violence researchers from different countries, identifying the issues that traumatized them and the protective strategies they found effective. This article reports on a moderated electronic discussion board run for 4 weeks from September to October 2009 and four purposeful interviews. A total of 15 researchers participated, 4 males and 11 females. Institutions and organizations researching in this area should consider researcher safety in project design. Abstract published by arrangement with Sage.