What is Trauma-Informed Theology?
Trauma-informed theology is a relatively new area of practical and pastoral theological study. Trauma theologian Karen O'Donell says:
“Trauma theology is a theological discipline that seeks to both do theological justice to traumatic experiences and also to reimagine theologies in the light of such experiences. Whilst suffering has always been of interest to Christian theology, trauma theology distinguishes between suffering and trauma, noting the specific impact trauma has on the embodied life of trauma survivors. Envisioning trauma experience as an earthquake that shatters theological landscapes, trauma theology sees its work as that of construction of reimagined theologies in the wake of these experiences.” [1]
Suffering and trauma are not new and they are themes found within the Biblical narrative. Our Christian faith is rooted in the horrific trauma of the crucifixion of Jesus. We know that suffering and trauma are part of human existence and so everyone has experienced some degree of suffering in their lives. However, trauma is different, the word 'trauma' is derived from a Greek root meaning wound, tear or rupture where historically this referred to solely physical injuries. However, in the 1970s post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) became recognised as a result of caring for veterans of the Vietnam War. This has led to studies of psychological trauma being understood as a wound or a rupture in the brain's psychological thought processes. This rupture of psychological trauma is not easy to define due to the many varying and complex issues surrounding psychological trauma. Jennifer Beste has attempted to provide a definition by describing it as “the experience of terror, loss of control, and utter helplessness during a stressful event that threatens one’s ... psychological integrity." [2].
The question which makes this relevant and applied today asks - what does psychological trauma mean to the way we as Christians understand and study theology and deliver pastoral care and ministry as well as the practical impact this has on churches and believers? It is this question which trauma-informed theology seeks to answer.
In a world where individuals are constantly navigating through the complexities of life, it is essential to recognise the impact that trauma can have on one's spiritual journey as well as their psychological thinking. Trauma-informed theology is the integration of psychological understanding of trauma with theological reflections and interpretations. It involves acknowledging the impact of trauma on individuals and communities, and reinterpreting Biblical teachings and practices through a trauma-informed lens to promote healing, compassion, and resilience. This approach seeks to create spaces of safety, understanding, and empowerment for those who have experienced trauma, and to foster a more compassionate and supportive worshipping community.
Trauma-informed theology is a concept that merges the principles of trauma-informed care with spiritual pastoral practices to create a healing and transformative experience for individuals who have experienced trauma. It is also a holistic approach that acknowledges the prevalence of trauma in society and seeks to address the spiritual and emotional needs of individuals who have experienced trauma. It recognizes that trauma can deeply impact one's sense of self, relationships, and beliefs, and aims to provide a safe and supportive environment for healing to occur.
Trauma can significantly impact an individual's relationship with Jesus and the Church. It can lead to feelings of anger, guilt, shame, and disconnection from one's beliefs and practices. Trauma-informed theology aims to address these barriers by providing a compassionate and empathetic approach to healing that honours the individual's unique experiences and struggles.
Trauma-Informed Theology can help by integrating trauma-informed care principles into Christian pastoral practices, individuals can experience healing, growth, and transformation in a supportive and understanding environment.