In police organizations, the subtle nature of sanctuary trauma and moral injury unfolds, often unnoticed, with profoundly damaging consequences. They silently creep into the hearts and minds of officers and civilians, leaving lasting imprints. What do we do when the very institutions we trust to support and keep us safe become the source of emotional and psychological injury? My journey through sanctuary trauma has led me to this unsettling question and highlights the need for reforms in workplace culture and support mechanisms within these organizations.
Moral injury arises when individuals find themselves conflicted, witnessing actions that contradict their deeply held values and the core principles of their profession. The sanctuary (organization or institution), usually a symbol of safety and support, becomes tainted when hazing, demoralizing behaviours, and unspoken expectations take root. The damage is concealed in silence, as the culture masks these experiences in secrecy. The weight of these silent burdens, create invisible scars that stay unaddressed, while organizations continue to function without acknowledging the need for open conversation and healing.
Sanctuary trauma refers to the experience of trauma within a supposed safe or trusted environment. It occurs when individuals experience violations of trust perpetrated by members of their institution, or when an institution causes harm to an individual who trusts or depends on that institution. This trauma can result from repeated exposure to distressing incidents. Sanctuary trauma challenges the belief that one's work environment is a secure and protected space, leading to psychological and emotional distress.
As I reflect on my own journey, I realize the gravity of these silent burdens. I recall my eagerness and excitement to be of service when I was hired as a 911 call taker. The training was rigorous and the job was demanding, but l believe that all good things come through hard work and perseverance. What I did not anticipate was an unexpected source of distress: my coworkers. In an environment where I expected to feel safe and supported, I could not escape the constant scrutiny and, at times, the outright hostility from the very people I thought were allies.
It was my choice to leave the unit, however, even when I secured a new position within the organization my supervisors kept me for months citing operational needs. Not only did I have to stay where I was not wanted, but I also found myself forced to work some of the most undesirable tasks - adding insult to injury. Breaking cultural norms can lead to subtle, behind-the-scenes consequences. Despite the belief that these punitive actions go unnoticed, they are deeply embedded consequences that discourage others from challenging the status quo.
Sanctuary trauma and moral injury share a common thread in the profound impacts they have on an individual’s well-being. It can be experienced by first responders who may find themselves in ethical dilemmas or situations that challenge their sense of right and wrong. As organizations function without acknowledging the need for open conversation and healing, they continue to perpetuate a culture of silence that compounds trauma.
The time has come to break this silence and foster a culture that recognizes, addresses, and heals the wounds of moral injury and sanctuary trauma within the ranks of police organizations. Only through open dialogue and support can we begin to mend the hearts and spirits of our dedicated officers and civilians and reclaim a sanctuary that truly represents safety and healing. Both types of psychological distress require recognition, support, and appropriate interventions to promote healing and well-being among police officers and civilians alike.
Sources
Bloom, S. L. (2017). The Sanctuary Model: Through the Lens of Moral Safety. In S. N. Gold (Ed.), APA Handbook of Trauma Psychology: Trauma Practice (pp. 499-513). American Psychological Association. https://doi.org/10.1037/0000020-024.
Lentz, L. M., Smith-MacDonald, L., Malloy, D., Carleton, R. N., & Brémault-Phillips, S. (2021). Compromised Conscience: A Scoping Review of Moral Injury Among Firefighters, Paramedics, and Police Officers. Frontiers in Psychology, 12. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2021.639781
Sullivan, W. P., & Starnino, V. R. (2019). "Staring into the abyss": Veterans’ accounts of moral injuries and spiritual challenges. Mental Health, Religion & Culture, 22(1), 25-40. https://doi.org/10.1080/13674676.2019.1578952
Comments