Interventions with Survivors of Interpersonal Trauma: Addressing the Role of Shame

This practice article considers the empirical research on the relationship between shame and trauma resulting from interpersonal violence. It explores the evidence suggesting that shame rather than fear is a better predictor for the development of PTSD and presents the argument that shame, along with fear, should be acknowledged and addressed in the course of intervention with trauma survivors. The article defines shame in its relation to other self-conscious emotions, discusses the mechanism underlying the formation of shame, gathers evidence for the actions of shame in the maintenance of PTSD/C-PTSD and barriers to healing, and examines research supporting practice principles for working with shame. It provides guidance for identifying the unique ‘web of shame’ that may present in trauma survivors, an understanding of how shame effects behavior and emotional responses and suggests therapeutic strategies for working with shame. A case example is presented along with practice principles for working with shame in social work interventions with survivors of interpersonal violence.