Workplace harassment and bullying are critical issues that require thorough and empathetic investigation. Unfortunately, not all workplace investigators prioritize trauma-informed interviewing skills, which may result from varying perspectives, training gaps, or organizational priorities. Recognizing the significance of trauma-informed interviewing skills can lead to more comprehensive and empathetic investigations, fostering restoration, respect, and recovery for all involved parties. This article will emphasize the benefits of these skills for workplace investigators, highlight the ethical dimension, and provide insights into how they can lead to better outcomes in sensitive cases.

The Significance of Trauma-Informed Interviewing Skills

Trauma-informed interviewing is crucial for addressing sensitive issues like harassment and bullying in the workplace. Its importance lies in understanding the profound connection between these issues and the risk of psychological injury. The long-term impact on employee well-being, mental health, and overall workplace morale makes trauma-informed interviewing skills essential for effective intervention and prevention.

Critical Aspects of Trauma-Informed Interviewing

Trauma-informed interviewing involves creating a supportive environment and process for individuals who may have experienced trauma. Key aspects include:

1. Empathy: Demonstrating understanding and sensitivity towards the individual’s experiences without judgment.
2. Active Listening: Attentively listening to the person’s narrative and validating their feelings and perspectives.
3. Safety: Prioritizing the physical and emotional safety of the individual throughout the interview process.
4. Choice and Control: Allowing the person to have a sense of control over the interview, respecting their autonomy in sharing information.
5. Avoiding Triggering Language: Using neutral language and avoiding questions that may trigger distressing memories.
6. Education and Awareness: Recognizing signs of trauma and responding appropriately.
7. Trauma-Informed Questions: Framing questions in a way that empathizes, acknowledges the potential impact of trauma, and encourages open communication.

Preventing Errors and Additional Harm

In addition to the critical aspects of trauma-informed interviewing, it is essential to focus on preventing errors, misunderstanding reactions, and causing additional harm. This involves:

1. Cultural Competence: Acknowledging diverse cultural perspectives to avoid misinterpretations and enhance communication accuracy.
2. Avoiding Assumptions: Being mindful of personal biases and refraining from making assumptions, ensuring a thorough understanding of the individual’s unique experience.
3. Non-Directive Approach: Allowing the person to guide the conversation, reducing the risk of imposing unintentional pressure or misinterpreting responses.
4. Regular Check-Ins: Monitor the person’s emotional state during the interview and provide breaks or additional support to prevent re-traumatization.

Consideration of Abilities and Disabilities

A truly inclusive and equitable approach to trauma-informed interviewing takes into account various abilities and disabilities, including:

1. Adaptability: Tailoring the interview process to accommodate different communication styles and needs, such as providing alternative formats or allowing additional time.
2. Clear Communication: Using straightforward language and checking for understanding, especially when interacting with individuals with intellectual or communication disabilities.
3. Accessibility: Ensuring that physical spaces and communication methods are accessible for individuals with physical disabilities, fostering an environment where everyone can comfortably participate.
4. Supportive Resources: Providing appropriate resources and support personnel, such as interpreters or advocates, to assist individuals with disabilities during the interview process.

Indigenous Investigations

Incorporating a trauma-informed approach into Indigenous investigations is of utmost importance. Indigenous communities often have unique cultural perspectives and histories that must be respected during workplace investigations.

Key considerations for Indigenous investigations include:

1. Cultural Sensitivity: Acknowledging and respecting Indigenous cultural practices, traditions, and beliefs throughout the investigation process.
2. Community Involvement: Recognizing the significance of involving Indigenous community leaders or elders in the process to provide guidance and support.
3. Healing and Restoration: Emphasizing the importance of healing and restorative justice within Indigenous communities, which may differ from mainstream approaches.
4. Historical Trauma: Understanding the impact of historical trauma on Indigenous individuals and communities and approaching investigations with cultural humility and awareness.

Additional Considerations

To ensure the well-being of employees attending an investigation interview, requiring a doctor’s letter for those on sick leave is a reasonable step. Conducting the interview in a neutral location and completing the process promptly aligns with a commitment to fairness and supports a trauma-informed perspective.

Conclusion

Incorporating trauma-informed interviewing skills and cultural competence and accommodating diverse needs into workplace investigations, including Indigenous investigations, is essential for ethical, comprehensive, fair, and professional outcomes. This holistic approach prioritizes the well-being of all individuals involved, minimizes the risk of errors or biases, and fosters an environment of trust and respect. Considering these elements, the investigation process becomes more robust and inclusive for addressing workplace concerns with integrity and thoroughness. Ultimately, it is our collective responsibility to foster a safer environment. This includes recognizing and respecting diversity and inclusivity and actively promoting them in all aspects of our workplaces. Embracing diversity and inclusivity enhances our ability to conduct trauma-informed interviews effectively, creating a workplace that values and respects every individual’s unique experiences and perspectives. It is through these efforts that we can truly achieve a workplace environment that is safe, equitable, and supportive for everyone involved.

If you are interested in adding these qualifications to your resume and practicing with these critical skill sets, contact me at psychologicalsafetyfirst@gmail.com