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Publication Date

2022-12

First Advisor

Kathryn Basham

Second Advisor

Jean LaTerz

Third Advisor

Karen W. Saakvitne

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy

Department

School for Social Work

Keywords

LGBTQIA+, trauma, religion/spirituality, mental health, social work

Abstract

In this qualitative study, I have investigated the phenomenon of spiritual trauma experienced by LGBTQIA+ clients through the understanding of the mental health practitioners. After reviewing the empirical and conceptual literature, I gathered that, despite having a positive impact for the general population, religion and spirituality can have adverse effects, resulting in spiritual trauma for vulnerable persons. I noted that the language and understandings of spiritual trauma were diverse and inconclusive. To get clarification, I conducted interviews with 20 clinicians to ask them how they recognized and assessed spiritual trauma with the LGBTQIA+ clients they worked with who have experienced spiritual trauma. The Findings revealed a tripartite definition of spiritual trauma that includes detrimental aftereffects of an event that is incongruent with the self, and a spiritual context. Clinicians reported that aftereffects of spiritual trauma can occur in various aspects of experience including emotional, spiritual, interpersonal or relational, and self-identity/self-esteem. The implications of this research can enhance clinical education and training, practice, policy and future research.

Rights

©2022 Lisa VanVleet. Access limited to the Smith College community and other researchers while on campus. Smith College community members also may access from off-campus using a Smith College log-in. Other off-campus researchers may request a copy through Interlibrary Loan for personal use.

Language

English

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