What does vicarious trauma refer to in this context?

• A. Trauma resulting from exposure to others' traumatic experiences
• B. Trauma experienced directly by the person
• C. Trauma due to financial loss
• D. Traumatic brain injury

Answer: (A)

Vicarious trauma is the psychological impact that comes from being repeatedly exposed to other people’s traumatic experiences, usually through work or close contact with trauma survivors. It happens through empathetic engagement with clients’ trauma narratives, not from something you personally experienced directly. Over time, this exposure can change how you view safety, trust, and the world, and it may bring emotional distress, sleep problems, or changes in behavior. This pattern is common for professionals who support trauma survivors. It isn’t about trauma you experienced yourself, isn’t about financial loss, and isn’t a brain injury.