Responding to the Sociopolitical Complexity of Trauma: An Integration of Theory and Practice

Abstract

Abstract This article calls attention to the complexity of trauma by enhancing the awareness of the intersectionality of race, class, and gender among oppressed groups, specifically women from marginalized populations, and underscores that consideration of such is essential for the creation of systems of care that are truly trauma-informed. Advancing the integration of theory and practice, we provide a rationale for adopting a postmodern feminist perspective to facilitate the creation of trauma-informed systems of care that take into account the complexity of trauma among this population, leading to comprehensive treatment that furthers the social work mission of social justice. KEYWORDS: cultureintersectionalitypostmodern feminismtraumatrauma-informed care Additional informationNotes on contributorsLaura Quiros Laura Quiros serves as an assistant professor at Adelphi University. Her research and scholarly interests include the social construction of racial and ethnic identity and the nuances of race and culture, multiculturalism in higher education, and trauma-informed practice. Her clinical practice focuses on training social service organizations to create trauma-informed and culturally aware environments. Roni Berger Roni Berger serves as a professor at Adelphi University, is a consultant to various professional organizations, and holds a private clinical practice. Her fields of expertise are immigrants; families, specifically stepfamilies; cross-cultural aspects of trauma and posttraumatic growth; qualitative research; evidence-based practice; and group work.