Workplace investigations are sensitive by nature, but when trauma is a factor, the complexity and stakes rise considerably.
Jessyca Greenwood
A trauma-informed approach to workplace investigations goes beyond legal obligations
It recognizes the deep emotional and psychological impacts that trauma can have on individuals involved. Understanding and integrating trauma-informed principles into your investigations is not only ethical but critical for fostering a fair, respectful, and supportive workplace culture.
Here’s how you can ensure your workplace investigation is trauma-informed:
1. Prioritize Safety
Creating a physically and emotionally safe environment is the cornerstone of any trauma-informed workplace investigation. Individuals must feel secure sharing their experiences without fear of retaliation, judgment, or further harm.
At Greenwood Law, we advise employers to enhance safety by conducting interviews in neutral, private settings, ensuring strict confidentiality, and being transparent about how information will be used.
Clear communication about the process from start to finish fosters trust and reinforces emotional safety.
2. Empower Choice and Control
Workplace investigations, particularly those involving trauma, can often leave individuals feeling powerless. A trauma-informed approach emphasizes the importance of providing employees with choices where possible.
At Greenwood Law, we recommend offering options such as selecting interview times, choosing comfortable settings, or providing alternatives for how to share their statements.
Transparency at every step and giving participants control over what happens next helps reduce anxiety and fosters trust in the investigation process.
3. Build Trust Through Transparency
Trauma survivors often struggle with trust, especially in the context of workplace investigations where harassment or misconduct may have occurred.
To build trust in a trauma-informed investigation, Greenwood Law emphasizes clear, consistent communication throughout the entire process. Investigators should explain each step, set realistic expectations, and provide regular updates. Being transparent about what happens next and following through on commitments helps reduce uncertainty and fosters confidence in the investigation.
4. Be Sensitive to Emotional Reactions
Trauma can manifest in various ways during workplace investigations, from heightened emotional responses to memory gaps or difficulty concentrating.
At Greenwood Law, we stress the importance of empathy in trauma-informed investigations. Investigators should be patient and sensitive to these emotional reactions, allowing participants the time they need to gather their thoughts.
Offering breaks, creating space for emotional expression, and responding with compassion ensures that the investigation process is respectful and supportive of everyone involved.
5. Avoid Re-Traumatization
One of the primary goals of a trauma-informed workplace investigation is to avoid re-traumatizing individuals involved.
At Greenwood Law, we guide employers to be mindful of how questions are framed, avoiding accusatory or invasive language. Repeated questioning or asking individuals to recount distressing events multiple times can be harmful.
Investigators should be trained to recognize signs of distress and provide space for participants to pause, regroup, or have additional support as needed.
6. Use a Strengths-Based Approach
In trauma-informed workplace investigations, it’s important not to view individuals solely through the lens of their trauma.
At Greenwood Law, we advocate for recognizing the strengths and resilience of those involved in investigations.
Acknowledging the courage it takes to come forward and advocate for oneself shifts the focus from victimization to empowerment. This positive reinforcement fosters a more collaborative process and helps build trust between the parties and investigators.
7. Practice Cultural Sensitivity and Inclusivity
Trauma affects everyone differently, and factors such as culture, race, gender, and socio-economic background can shape how individuals experience and respond to trauma.
At Greenwood Law, we emphasize the importance of cultural sensitivity in workplace investigations. Investigators should approach each case with awareness of diverse cultural norms and experiences, ensuring that their questioning is respectful and inclusive.
By being mindful of these differences, investigators can create a more equitable process that respects the backgrounds of all participants.
Recognize the Impact on All Parties
A trauma-informed workplace investigation isn’t just about supporting the complainant—it’s important to acknowledge the potential impact on all parties, including respondents, witnesses, and even the investigative team.
At Greenwood Law, we encourage employers to provide access to resources and support for everyone involved. Trauma doesn’t only arise from incidents of harassment or violence; the investigation process itself can be distressing.
By offering support and understanding to all participants, employers can ensure a fair and balanced investigation.
Conclusion: Balancing Sensitivity and Thoroughness
At Greenwood Law, we believe that taking a trauma-informed approach to workplace investigations doesn’t mean sacrificing thoroughness. Instead, it involves balancing the need for a comprehensive, fact-based inquiry with an understanding of how trauma can affect those involved. By focusing on key principles like safety, trust, and empowerment, you can ensure a fair, compassionate process that respects the dignity of all parties.
Trauma-informed investigations not only lead to better outcomes in individual cases but also contribute to a healthier and more supportive workplace culture. Incorporating trauma-informed practices is more than just a trend—it’s a necessary shift in how we handle sensitive workplace matters. This approach recognizes the human element behind every investigation, helping create an environment where healing and justice can coexist.
If you’re navigating a sensitive workplace investigation, contact us at Greenwood Law to ensure the process is both legally sound and trauma-informed.
