Mental Disorders and Treatment

Vicarious Trauma in Mental Health Professionals Following the 9/11 Terrorist Attacks

Abstract

Gertie Quitangon, Kate St. Cyr, Charles Nelson, Steven Lascher, Lea DiFrancisci and Spencer Eth

Introduction: Some research evidence has suggested that mental health clinicians who provide services following massive disasters are at risk for developing symptoms of vicarious trauma (VT). This pilot study was conducted following the unprecedented terrorist attacks in New York City on September 11, 2001. Objectives: 1) To identify risk and protective factors of VT in a sample of mental health professionals who provided services to victims of 9/11. 2) To compare and contrast the findings of the survey with other published studies. Method: A group of mental health professionals who provided services to New York City residents affected by 9/11 were surveyed on the first year anniversary of the terrorist attacks. Risk and protective factors of VT were identified using correlation and chi-squared analyses. Findings of this survey were compared with other published studies on VT in mental health clinicians who worked with 9/11 survivors. Results: History of personal trauma, fewer years of professional experience, fewer hours of individual supervision, and larger caseloads were identified as probable risk factors for VT. Conclusions: An increased risk of VT was associated with a number of work-related and personal variables. Enhanced professional and social supports may decrease the risk of VT in mental health professionals who provide services in the context of disasters and mass psychological trauma.