Secondary Traumatic Stress in Front Line Professionals: An exploration of risk factors

Objective: This study sought to explore the prevalence of secondary traumatic stress in a range of front-line services and the potential impact of age, gender, experience, occupation and adverse childhood experiences. Literature has identified the vulnerability of front-line workers to secondary traumatic stress. However, the literature exploring risk factors for secondary trauma is limited and inconsistent. It was hypothesised that secondary traumatic stress would be prevalent in front-line services. It was hypothesised that demographic factors would not be identified as potential risk factors, while adverse childhood experiences would increase the risk for secondary traumatic stress. Method: Analysis of data collected via surveys, comprised of the Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) and Professional Quality of Life scales, was conducted. Participants (N = 576) were recruited from mental health, healthcare, social care, education and justice systems. Data was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics.
Results: Almost 30% of front-line workers were at risk for secondary traumatic stress, with criminal justice workers most susceptible. Demographic factors were not identified as risk factors. A significant association was identified between occupation type and high exposure to ACEs and the risk for secondary traumatic stress, with 40% of participants with high ACE exposure at risk for secondary trauma.
Conclusions: The results highlight the prevailing issue of secondary traumatic stress in front-line services and the potential role of adverse childhood experiences in increasing the risk for the trauma contagion effect. The findings indicate a need for trauma-informed service design in front-line services.