Teaching Note—Trauma-Informed Teaching in Social Work Education

The objective of this teaching note is to further discussion, application, and research on trauma-informed educational practices in social work. Trauma has a pervasive effect across social work service sectors. Both generalist and specialized education about trauma could reduce misinterpretation of coping strategies and retraumatization of vulnerable client groups. Educational practices should recognize the effect of trauma on social work students as well as clients to minimize the risk of vicarious trauma and retraumatization in education. This would foster learning for all students, including those from populations at increased risk for exposure to adversity. Further research is warranted to understand whether trauma-informed education can increase diversity in the profession and trauma knowledge in the field.