DOI
https://doi.org/10.25772/71R2-GR68
Defense Date
2025
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science
Department
Psychology
First Advisor
Dr. Michael Southam-Gerow
Abstract
The integration of trauma-informed care (TIC) into behavioral health and child welfare systems has garnered increasing attention, reflecting a growing acknowledgment of the pervasive and multifaceted impacts of trauma on individuals, families, and service delivery structures (Barnett et al., 2019; Bartlett et al., 2018; Bassuk et al., 2017; Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration [SAMHSA], 2014). Legislation such as the Family First Prevention Services Act (FFPSA) has led to increased adoption of trauma-informed practices through increased funding for training and services (Bowen & Murshid, 2016; Brown et al., 2023). Research shows that providers’ understanding and implementation of TIC is influenced by factors such as staff demographics, role, and organizational context and level of support (Beck et al., 2022; Black et al., 2022; Clark et al., 2024; Collins-Camargo & Antle, 2018). The present study examines trauma-informed beliefs among some 500 child welfare professionals in a large mid-Atlantic state. Participants completed questionnaires assessing TIC beliefs including Trauma-Informed Care Beliefs Scale 3.2 (TICBM3.2) and the Application Potential of Professional Learning Inventory (APPLI), along with demographic and professional background information. Regression analyses were conducted to examine how factors such as role, demographics, and perceived supervisory and organizational support influenced the endorsement of TIC beliefs. The analysis revealed that education, role, gender, and perceived training and organizational congruence were correlated with higher trauma-informed care beliefs.
Rights
© The Author
Is Part Of
VCU University Archives
Is Part Of
VCU Theses and Dissertations
Date of Submission
8-1-2025