Trauma-informed practices among psychologists in the portuguese child welfare: Training, implementation, and institutional gaps

Abstract

The prevalence and impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences are widely recognized as a global public health concern. In Portugal, psychologists within the Child Welfare System (CWS) play a central role, as they are the only professionals legally authorized to conduct psychological assessment and intervention. These practitioners work daily with children and families exposed to high rates of interpersonal, chronic, and cumulative trauma, primarily domestic violence. This study aimed to assess psychologists’ training, knowledge, professional practices, and the resources available at individual and institutional levels to implement trauma-informed practices. A convenience sample of 144 psychologists from nearly all Portuguese regions completed an online questionnaire. Participants were mostly women (92 %) and held a master’s degree (70.1 %), working in different professional roles within social, health, education, and justice sectors. Findings revealed that although individual psychologists demonstrated awareness of trauma-informed principles, there was limited institutional support for their implementation. Trauma-informed practices were only modestly endorsed, with the lowest scores related to the availability and accessibility of trauma-focused treatments. Specific training in trauma assessment and intervention emerged as a key positive predictor of the adoption of trauma-informed practices, whereas traditional clinical specializations did not appear to enhance trauma-informed competencies. These results underscore the need for comprehensive organizational policies, structured training programs, and systemic support to foster the consistent integration of trauma-informed practices within the CWS. Strengthening trauma-informed approaches will improve services for victims and their families and promote the well-being and effectiveness of the professionals and institutions involved.