Using Constructivist Self-Development Theory to Understand Judges' Reactions to a Courthouse Shooting: An Exploratory Study

Abstract

In 2006 Judge Chuck Weller was shot through his office window. Nine judges who work with Weller were interviewed using the framework of constructivist self-development theory (CSDT), which proposes that trauma can interfere with safety, esteem, intimacy, trust and control needs. CSDT has been used to study trauma victims and counselors but has yet to be used with judges. Judges' responses were generally consistent with CSDT, because every judge experienced distortions in at least one CSDT need. Each need was distorted in at least five judges. Distortions were generally mild to moderate, except in a few judges, who had more extreme safety needs distortions. Additionally, judges relied on past experiences (e.g., prosecutors, lawyers, soldiers) to help them cope. Finally, many judges distanced themselves from Weller by reasoning that they work in different buildings or are not family court judges like Weller. Further research is needed to fully understand judges' reactions to trauma.