Secondary Traumatic Stress and the Lived Experiences of Secondary Victims
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Authors
Cielo, Cielo
Issue Date
2026-04
Type
Dissertation
Language
en
Keywords
Secondary traumatic stress , Interpersonal relationships , Perceived social support , Phenomenology
Alternative Title
Abstract
The problem addressed in this study was the negative impact of secondary traumatic stress on interpersonal relationships and the lack of perceived support for victims of STS post-trauma. The purpose of this qualitative transcendental phenomenological study was to explore the lived experiences of STS victims, the perceived effects of secondary traumatic stress on relationships, and the victims’ perceptions of available support. Bowen’s family systems theory was used as the framework to examine how traumatic stress impacts the entire family unit. The study was guided by 3 research questions: 1. What are the lived experiences of those suffering from STS after learning of a primary victim’s trauma? 2. How do those who suffer from STS experience changes in interpersonal relationships? and 3. How do those suffering from STS feel about specific barriers to seeking the appropriate support post-trauma? Ten participants who experienced STS symptoms, had a close family member that was a primary victim of trauma, had no primary trauma in the last five years and no experience in the mental healthcare field were recruited using purposeful sampling. Those qualifying participation in semi-structured, open ended interviews, giving the researcher the opportunity to get the best possible understanding of their lived experiences. Utilizing Moustaka’s transcendental analysis approach, results revealed 7 codes that were grouped into 8 themes supporting current research on STS and relationships. Findings showed the majority of participants experienced a deterioration in their personal relationships as well as symptoms of depression and anxiety. Additionally, participants reported a lack of perceived support post-trauma. This study implies the important role perception plays in the lives and family relationships of the SVs post-trauma. Based on the findings of this study, recommendations for practice include promoting support for secondary victims in addition to the primary victims. Additionally, support sessions should also focus on the entire family unit in addition to the PV. Future research should narrow the scope on the SVs relationships outside the family unit as well as focus on the differences gender or sexual orientation play in changes in relationships post-trauma.