Secondary traumatic stress disorder symptoms in a sample of therapists and psychiatrists working with people after traumatic events

Abstract

Objectives. To compare the level of secondary traumatic stress disorder symptoms, demographic (age) and work- -related variables (years of experience, average number of trauma patients over the past 12 months, and clinical supervision) in a sample of trauma therapists and psychiatrists working with trauma victims. Method. The study included 160 participants, 80 therapists and 80 psychiatrists, who worked with trauma victims. Participants filled out the PTSD Questionnaire: Factorial Version to assess the level of secondary traumatic stress disorder symptoms and the Berlin Social Support Scales to measure social support. They also provided demographic and work-related information. Results: The results of our study revealed higher rates of secondary traumatic stress disorder (STSD) symptoms among psychiatrists compared to therapists. We also noticed significant differences with respect to age, years of experience and actually received support between therapists and psychiatrists. Conclusions: Mental health specialists should be aware of the potentially negative impact of working with trauma victims in the form of secondary traumatic stress disorder symptom