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In the workplace, trauma responses can present in different ways, which may include “absenteeism, increased distraction, task avoidance, accidents, loss of motivation, irritability with co-workers, and increased conflict.” This listicle shares articles and guides on how trauma affects individuals in their job search and how career professionals can support clients who are experiencing negative impacts of trauma on their motivation.
This article is part of a CareerWise series on “Trauma and Career Development.”
How does trauma affect motivation? (Arizona Trauma Institute)
This article from the Arizona Trauma Institute says “research in neuroscience has shown that trauma can have a profound effect on the brain, such as changes in motivation and behaviour. Trauma symptoms such as hypervigilance, avoidance, and negative beliefs can all interfere with goal-directed behaviour.” The institute also offers trauma training and courses.
Embracing the Reality of Trauma and its Impact in Career Development (NCDA)
In this article, career professional Dr. Paola A. Barriga notes how trauma can affect individuals’ ability to achieve their professional goals. Barriga says it is important employers address trauma and offers six suggestions including: “Reducing the stigma of trauma and educating employees on symptoms and effects of depression and anxiety” as well as “hiring a wellness manager.”
The overlooked relationship between motivational abilities and posttraumatic stress: a review (European Journal of Psychotraumatology)
This journal article looks at how traumatic stress changes and influences the ability to motivate oneself. The article reviewed 54 studies and discusses “the existing trauma literature in terms of motivation-related concepts, such as self-efficacy, locus of control, self-esteem, and self-control/impulsivity.”
A Trauma-Informed Approach To Workforce (National Fund for Workforce Solutions)
The United States-based National Fund for Workforce Solutions released an introductory guide “intended to help employers and workforce development organizations understand toxic stress and trauma, their effects on employees and jobseekers, and compile a selection of organizational strategies and practices to advance trauma-informed approaches in employee management.” This includes motivation, which can be affected by an unsafe work environment.
How can you help clients find meaning and purpose after experiencing trauma or oppression? (LinkedIn)
Career counsellors can help their clients who have faced or are facing trauma by exploring their strengths and values, as these “are the core aspects of their identity and motivation that can guide their career choices and goals.” Another strategy is to use “motivational interviewing or cognitive behavioral techniques.”
Trauma-Informed Care: A Necessary Skill for Career Professionals (Career Professionals of Canada)
Career Professionals of Canada says a “a trauma-informed care approach is necessary for safe and supportive crisis intervention and service delivery.” One strategy to do this is by reminding clients of their goals, as “this strategy will help the client stay motivated and empowered.”
Six ways career counsellors can help clients who are struggling with motivation (CareerWise)
Applying a trauma-informed care lens to the strategies outlined in this article could help support clients who are struggling with motivation due to experiences of trauma. The strategies include setting up informational interviews with past clients who have found success in their job search, developing a mentoring program or celebrating a successful job search.
The Impact of Trauma on Employee Motivation, Drive, and Ambition: Understanding and Supporting Employees Who Have Experienced Trauma (LinkedIn)
Another way that trauma can manifest is in employees who are highly motivated due to a need for validation and to gain control over their lives. This article says that despite the motivation these employees show, it is important that employers support them as they may still be coping and healing.
Additional reading
- Five Signs that Trauma Is Sabotaging Your Job Search (LinkedIn)
- How Untreated Trauma Affects Employment (Khiron Clinics)
- Leadership And Childhood Trauma: Tips For Building Drive And Motivation In The Face Of Adversity (Forbes)
- Trauma in the workplace: what it is and 5 ways leadership can help (BetterUp)
- What are effective career development strategies for those who have experienced trauma? (LinkedIn)
