Secondary Traumatic Stress in Rural Child Welfare Workers: A Push for Change
Secondary Traumatic Stress in Rural Child Welfare Workers: A Push for Change
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Issue Date
2025-03-01
Authors
Tiller, Nicole
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
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Abstract
This Capstone examines the pervasive issue of secondary traumatic stress (STS) among child welfare workers employed in rural settings in Canada, highlighting the unique challenges faced by this often overlooked workforce. Drawing on existing literature and integrating an individualized systems framework and trauma theory, the research emphasizes the critical need for systemic change to support workers who are routinely exposed to trauma through their roles. The research identifies key factors that contribute to the prevention of STS, including individual coping mechanisms, and organizational support, and also points on the unique impact of the rural setting on job performance and mental health. The findings suggest that effective interventions, both from a child welfare organizational lens, and also a counseling application lens, must encompass an individualized, holistic approach, integrating individual self-care practices, robust organizational support systems, and trauma-informed leadership strategies. This Capstone aims to not only illuminate the struggles faced by rural child welfare workers but also advocate for comprehensive policy and practice initiatives that mitigate STS, enhance job satisfaction, and ultimately improve outcomes for both workers and the families they serve. The implications of this study are significant for leaders in child welfare organizations and counseling practitioners, providing a foundation for future research and targeted interventions to mitigate STS and foster healthier workplace culture.
Description
Keywords
child welfare workers , rural , secondary traumatic stress
License
Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 United States , openAccess