THE DYNAMICS OF SECONDARY TRAUMATISATION IN THERAPY WITH VICTIMS OF TORTURE

Abstract

"The paper focuses on challenges and burdens of psychotherapists working with torture victims. Torture is used worldwide and even on the rise. It can be found in almost all countries, even in democratic ones. Torture is an international problem and leaves no one untouched. Psychotherapists who work with torture victims run the risk of being secondarily traumatized. Currently, there is a lack of research on secondary traumatization in the field of torture. Based on an individual case analysis the dynamics of secondary traumatization in therapy with victims of torture are highlighted. For this purpose, a narrative interview was conducted with a psychotherapist who worked with torture victims. The interview was analysed with the content analysis according to Mayring. The paper begins by reviewing the theoretical background and addresses the understanding of torture and secondary traumatization. It continues with a presentation of the current state of research and the method used for the study. Next, selected points of the dynamics of secondary traumatization in therapeutic work with victims of torture are presented. Finally, aspects of support resulting from the interview are highlighted."