In this essay regarding types of trauma exposure and responses to traumatic experiences, specifically sexual assault will first define the key terms. Therefore, an event is said to be traumatic if it causes physical, emotional, spiritual, or psychological harm. Some of the effects of trauma exposure involve feeling threatened, paranoia, and anxiety. The patient may also be in denial or unable to respond to the traumatic experience. Examples of traumatic experiences include natural disasters, sexual assault, or physical abuse, among others. Common responses to traumatic experiences include irritability, anger, denial, and depression, among others. To recover from a traumatizing experience, the patient needs constant therapy and support from friends and family. It is also essential to know how to manage a traumatic experience.
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Sexual assault as a type of trauma exposure
Sexual assault is an example of traumatic exposure. It is an unauthorized sexual activity, whereby the perpetrators use force, makes threats, and take advantage of a victim who is not able to give consent. Risk factors for sexual assault can either be societal, community, relationship, or individual elements. However, it is important to note that these risk factors are contribution attributes but not direct causes. Protective factors for perpetration are factors that lessen the likelihood of sexual assault or victimization. These factors of the different types of trauma exposure can also exist at individual, community, relational, and societal levels. Responses to traumatic events, in most cases, are a result of its impact. For instance, impacts or effects of sexual assault may be physical, mental, or emotional.
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Potential challenges when working with trauma exposure
Some of the challenges when working with the different types of trauma exposure and trauma patients include acknowledgment of survivors, cultural sensitivity, fatigue, and limited resources. Some of the responses to traumatic events include pain and anger. When working with trauma victims, the first instinct is to show compassion. However, it is important to know that we cannot take away a person’s pain, but with time, and appropriate support, we can help them in any way they need. Managing a traumatic experience does not only involve the victim, but also the people around them. By supporting them, they will be able to deal with the effects of trauma exposure. Some of the ways to manage challenges when dealing with trauma victims include not taking feelings to heart and knowing what to do or say.
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