ARE WE READY TO WORK WITH TRAUMA? SELF-ASSESSMENT OF TRAUMA-INFORMED COMPETENCE OF SOCIAL WORKERS

Abstract

Introduction. The relevance of this study is driven by a sharp increase in requests related to psychotraumatic events and the subsequent need to adapt social services for individuals with a history of trauma. This article presents the results of a comprehensive analysis regarding social workers’ self-assessment of the cognitive and praxeological components of their readiness to implement a trauma-informed approach. Purpose and objectives of the article. The research focuses on practitioners’ self-evaluation of their awareness concerning concepts of acute and complex trauma, client adaptation mechanisms, and vicarious traumatization. The empirical stage was conducted as a pre-training assessment (n=54). Scientific Novelty. The study identifies a significant disproportion within the structure of professional readiness: specifically, between a high level of empathetic perception regarding the adaptive nature of trauma (72.2% of respondents recognize client symptoms as survival strategies) and a substantial deficit in specific instrumental skills. Notably, a critical “blind spot” in professional reflection was identified – a low awareness of vicarious traumatization (only 33.3% of those surveyed recognize risks to their own mental health) – alongside pronounced professional uncertainty in applying practical stabilization techniques for clients. Results. The analysis revealed skepticism among specialists regarding the implementation of trauma-informed principles within hierarchical institutional contexts. It is demonstrated that while the readiness of social workers possesses high ethical potential, it requires immediate instrumental reinforcement. The findings establish a need to transition from introductory training to long-term professional support programs. Such programs should include the practice of specific stabilization skills, the implementation of regular supervision, and the restructuring of organizational design within social institutions to foster a safe environment for both clients and staff.