Understanding
System-Induced Trauma
iPTSD.org
Introduction
System-induced trauma is defined as exposure to traumatic systems.
One might ask, what is a traumatic system? We could define it simply as a system that causes trauma, but this is of limited use in analyzing the causes and effects.
Some traumatic systems were designed to be traumatic: our penal system is a prime example.
Other systems are accidentally or incidentally traumatic, like when a patient experiences an adverse event during medical or psychiatric care.
A system might cause trauma through its structure, its function (or a combination of both) or its relationship with society or other institutions or systems.
Steward, Nicole. “What Is System-Induced Trauma?” Continued Social Work. https://www.continued.com/social-work/ask-the-experts/what-is-system-induced-trauma-84.
identifying traumatic systems
Identifying a traumatic system involves recognizing patterns and characteristics within a system that systematically lead to harm or distress among individuals, especially those most vulnerable or marginalized. Here are key indicators to look for:
Disproportionate impact
The system consistently affects certain groups negatively, leading to disproportionate harm based on race, gender, socioeconomic status, or other identity markers.
Opacity
There is a lack of transparency in how decisions are made, policies are applied, and resources are allocated, making it difficult for individuals to navigate or understand the system.
Normalization of harm
Harmful practices or outcomes are considered a normal or unavoidable part of the system’s operation, rather than exceptions that require correction.
Systematic Bias
Policies, practices, or cultural norms within the system perpetuate stereotypes, discrimination, or bias against certain groups, leading to their marginalization.
Inflexibility
The system is resistant to change, with rigid policies that fail to adapt to the diverse needs and circumstances of the individuals it serves.
Silencing of Dissent
Individuals or groups raising concerns about the system’s operation or impact are silenced, marginalized, gaslit, or punished, indicating a culture that prioritizes maintaining the status quo over addressing harm.
Lack of Accountability
There is minimal to no recourse for those harmed by the system. Complaints or grievances are often ignored, dismissed, or retaliated against, indicating a failure in the system’s self-regulation.
Barriers to Access
The system creates unnecessary obstacles that prevent individuals from accessing services, resources, or support, effectively excluding those in need
Harmful Feedback Loop
The system perpetuates a cycle where initial harm leads to further systemic interactions that exacerbate the trauma, reinforcing the traumatic impact over time.
Identifying System-Induced Trauma
- Documented interaction with a traumatic system
- Traumatic symptoms stemming from this interaction
- Persistent distrust towards institutions and systems, even (and perhaps especially) those unrelated to the original trauma
Feelings of powerlessness
A sense of helplessness or lack of control over one's life due to systemic constraints or injustices
Avoidance
Steering clear of situations or environments associated with the system, including places, people, or activities.
Identity Distress
Struggles with self-identity or self-worth related to or stemming from interaction with a traumatic system
Hypervigilance
Excessive alertness or readiness for harm when interacting with or in the vicinity of systemic structures.
Anger and Frustration
Intense emotions directed towards the system or society at large for perceived injustices or harm.
Anxiety and Depression
Emotional distress or mood disturbances stemming from negative experiences with systemic entities
Social Withdrawal
Pulling away from community or societal engagement due to mistrust or fear of further trauma.
Polysystemic Trauma
When people describe their struggles with "The System," they often view it as a singular, monolithic entity. However, the reality is more complex—our societal systems are polycentric, meaning they consist of many independent centers of decision-making.
The concept of polycentricity was pioneered by Elinor Ostrom, an economist who shifted her focus to political science to better understand community policing dynamics.
Her work revealed how various systems—each with its own set of rules and objectives—interact within a larger societal context, impacting individuals in multifaceted ways.
Survivors may feel intimidated, overwhelmed, or scared because they do not understand how these many complex systems interact.
External or general polycentricity is Ostrom’s original idea: that multiple organizations with competing interests affect overall decision-making.
Internal polycentricity refers to the many teams within an organization that affect decision-making. The Legal team may require Marketing to alter their wording, and supervisors may reverse decisions made by front-line employees.
Ostrom, Elinor. “Beyond Markets and States: Polycentric Governance of Complex Economic Systems.” The American Economic Review 100, no. 3 (2010): 641–72. http://www.jstor.org/stable/27871226.
dealing with traumatic systems
Recognizing a system as traumatic may reveal limited options for recourse. Yet, there are actionable steps you can take when experiencing confusion, overwhelm, anger, or frustration.
1. Educate Yourself: Understand the rights you have within the system or the law and familiarize yourself with its procedures and policies. Knowledge can empower you to navigate the system more effectively.
2. Seek Support: Connect with support groups, community organizations, or professionals who understand the trauma caused by such systems. Sharing experiences can provide emotional support and practical advice.
3. Document Everything: Keep detailed records of your interactions with the system, including dates, times, names, and descriptions of conversations or incidents. Documentation can be crucial for advocacy, legal action, or systemic reform efforts.
4. Use Safe Channels for Feedback: If possible, provide feedback about your experiences through channels that protect your identity and safety. Some systems have ombudspersons, anonymous reporting tools, or oversight bodies designed for this purpose.
5. Advocate for Change: Join or support advocacy groups working to reform the system. Collective action can be more powerful than individual efforts in affecting systemic change.
6. Practice Self-Care: Navigating a traumatic system can be draining and stressful. Prioritize your mental and physical health through self-care practices, therapy, or counseling.
7. Explore Alternatives: If possible, look for alternative pathways to meet your needs outside the traumatic system, whether it's seeking alternative services, institutions, or community support networks.
8. Educate Others: Share your knowledge and experiences with peers who might also be affected by the system. Raising awareness can help others navigate the system more effectively and can build a community of support.
9. Legal Advice: Consider consulting with a legal professional to explore your rights and options for recourse or redress within the system.
10. Disengage When Necessary: If interacting with the system poses a risk to your mental or physical well-being, evaluate if and how you can limit your exposure to it. Sometimes, stepping back is necessary for self-preservation.
Example assessment questions
"Can you recall an experience with a system that made you feel unsafe or unfairly treated?"
"Have there been moments when you felt a system's rules or policies were applied unfairly to you?"
"Do you avoid seeking help or support because of past negative experiences with institutions?"
"Do you believe that systemic issues have impacted your mental health care?"
"Do you feel that your identity has influenced how systems interact with you or respond to your needs?"
"Can you describe a time when you felt that a system was working against you, rather than for you?"
"Do interactions with certain systems (legal, medical, educational) leave you feeling anxious or powerless?"
"How do you cope with feelings of anger, frustration, resentment or helplessness when dealing with institutional systems?"
"How has your trust in societal systems been affected by your experiences?"
"How do you feel when you think about reaching out to an institution for help?"
"Are there any positive supports or resources within systems that you have found helpful or trustworthy?"
"How do you navigate challenges or obstacles presented by interactions with institutions or systems?