Understanding the Impact of Trauma on Behavior: A Guide for Library Staff
On the daily, library staff encounter individuals from various backgrounds and experiences. Because of this, library staff need to understand the impact trauma has on behavior. Trauma is a silent experience that can shape a person's behavior, influencing their interactions and engagement with library services.
As a library staff member, understanding the impact of trauma on behavior is crucial for patron interactions, programming, services and for creating safe spaces. Understanding the impact of trauma can help design programs and services that are inclusive, supportive and sensitive to the needs of all patrons. It also helps create environments that feel safe, non-judgmental and conducive to healing.
Not understanding the impact trauma has on behavior might lead to unintentional re-traumatization of patrons, misinterpreting certain behaviors, and conflict. This lack of understanding can create an atmosphere of discomfort or mistrust for both patrons and staff. Leaving staff feeling frustrated, overwhelmed, and ill-equipped to handle challenging situations. Ultimately, not being able to support patrons in a trauma-informed manner can hinder the library's mission of serving as a community hub and resource for all individuals.
Let’s define what trauma is, ways trauma can impact behavior and 4 steps for implementing trauma-informed services in your library.
What is trauma?
Trauma is a deeply distressing or disturbing experience that can have lasting effects on an individual's mental, emotional, and physical well-being. It can result from a range of events such as abuse, violence, loss, or natural disasters. Trauma can affect people of all ages, backgrounds and walks of life.
One key thing to remember is that every individual experiences trauma differently. For example, my experience with a hurricane is different from someone else’s experience. Therefore, it might be traumatic for me but not for someone else who lived through the same hurricane.
How does trauma impact behavior?
Trauma can manifest in many ways. A lot of times it's through coping mechanisms that we have developed to cope with the distressing experience. Some of the most common behaviors are:
Hyperarousal and Hypervigilance: This is a constant, heightened state of arousal, that can lead to increased anxiety, difficulty focusing, and a tendency to react strongly to perceived dangers. Think of that patron that is always “jumpy” or “watching their back.”
Avoidance and Isolation: Trauma survivors might avoid situations, places, or activities that trigger distressing memories. This avoidance can contribute to isolation as a way to protect themselves from potential harm or emotional triggers. Some people don’t do well in group settings so entering a library that has a welcoming environment is beneficial.
Difficulty Trusting Others: Building trust can be challenging for individuals who have experienced betrayal or abuse. Library staff may encounter patrons who struggle to trust others, making it essential to approach interactions with patience and understanding.
Emotional Dysregulation: Trauma can disrupt the regulation of emotions, leading to intense mood swings, anger outbursts, or emotional numbness. Think of a time where you were having a conversation with someone whose response seemed “over-reactive” or “emotionally inappropriate.”
Now that we know all of this,
what steps can you take to address the impact trauma has on behavior and support patrons?
Education and Training:
This is one of the most important aspects of trauma-informed services. Offering comprehensive training sessions for all library staff can make a difference. Library staff would have the opportunity to learn to recognize the signs of trauma, ways they can respond appropriately, and ways to provide support if needed. If you are interested in trauma-informed training, visit our workshops page to sign up for any upcoming training.
Non-Judgmental Mindset:
Encourage staff to shift their mindset and observe patron behavior with a compassionate and non-judgmental mindset. Teach staff to recognize common signs of trauma, as hypervigilance, withdrawal, aggression, or emotional outburst.
Empathy and Communication:
Emphasize the importance of empathy and active listening when interacting with patrons. Train staff to use language that is supportive, non-confrontational, and trauma-informed.
Resource and Referral:
Equip staff with knowledge of local resources and support services for individuals who have experienced trauma, such as counseling centers, crisis hotlines, or support groups. Develop partnerships with community organizations or agencies that specialize in trauma-informed care, and provide staff with contact information and referral protocols.
By following these steps, library staff can cultivate a supportive and understanding environment that acknowledges the impact of trauma on behavior and reduces the risk of re-traumatization. It can help improve relationships and communication with patrons, reduce stigma and judgment, and increase access to support services. Lastly, it can enhance the well-being of staff.
Trauma-informed training not only benefits patrons but also contributes to the well-being of library staff. Staff members feel more confident and equipped to handle challenging situations, reducing stress, burnout, and compassion fatigue. This creates a healthier work environment and promotes job satisfaction among staff members. Visit our workshop website to learn more about our upcoming trainings.
