What should be a focus of trauma-informed interview techniques?

Focusing on empowering the survivor is a fundamental aspect of trauma-informed interview techniques. This approach recognizes that individuals who have experienced trauma may have feelings of powerlessness and vulnerability. By empowering the survivor, interviewers can help restore a sense of control, encouraging them to share their experiences in a safe and supportive environment.

Empowerment involves validating the survivor's feelings, offering choices during the interview process, and involving them in decisions about their care or the next steps. This can help to build trust and rapport, which is essential when dealing with sensitive topics that may trigger distress. Empowerment also promotes a survivor's agency, allowing them to express themselves at their own pace and comfort level, which can lead to more accurate and meaningful disclosures.

In contrast, focusing on establishing authority can create a power imbalance, making the survivor feel intimidated or less likely to open up. Minimizing the survivor's feelings can lead to feelings of invalidation and further trauma, while rapidly questioning may provoke anxiety and hinder the survivor's ability to communicate effectively. These approaches are not conducive to a therapeutic and supportive interview environment.