Understanding How Neurobiology of Trauma Manifests into Trauma-Informed Care for Sexual Assault Victims.

Shelby A. McCloskey, Danielle M. Davidov
School of Public Health, Department of Social and Behavioral Science, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV 26506

Presentation Category: Science & Technology (Oral Presentation)

Student’s Major: Public Health

Neurobiology is a branch of study that examines the anatomy, physiology, and pathology of the brain. When key stakeholders who encounter victims of sexual violence are well informed on the neurobiology of trauma, they are able to better tailor their trauma-informed care. The purpose of this research is to gain a deeper understanding of the brain's response to trauma in relation to sexual violence, and explore if the findings are integrated into trauma-informed care. Key stakeholders from three organizations- sexual assault nurse examiner (SANE) nursing, university police, and Title IX- participated in in-depth qualitative interviews to discuss their role in caring for sexual violence victims. Crucial research findings include the science behind tonic shock and memory retrieval. Notable findings of the interviews included that while the individuals were aware of presented concepts, they were not always part of their initial training for their respective roles. There was a unanimous consensus that neurobiology should be a fundamental concept included in all trauma-informed care education.

Funding: West Virginia University Health Science Center, 12300771

Program/mechanism supporting research/creative efforts: a West Virginia SURE program