Psychological trauma is a complex and often misunderstood phenomenon, especially within the legal profession. While the term 'trauma' is frequently used, its implications are profound and multifaceted. A powerful article by Zoe Lodrick,
“Psychological Trauma – What Every Trauma Worker Should Know,” delves into the neurobiological underpinnings of trauma and offers valuable insights that can enhance the legal community's approach to cases involving trauma survivors.
Trauma: Beyond the EventLodrick emphasises that trauma is not merely about the event itself, but about how the individual experiences and responds to it. This is a critical distinction for legal professionals. Two individuals may endure similar events, yet one may walk away unaffected while the other experiences lasting psychological impact. Understanding trauma as a subjective, biological response - rather than simply an objective occurrence - enables legal professionals to approach each client with greater empathy and nuance.
The Five Fs: Understanding Survival ResponsesWhen faced with a threat, the human brain doesn't always respond rationally. Instead, it activates survival mechanisms commonly known as the
Five Fs:
fight,
flight,
freeze,
flop and
fawn. These instinctive responses are not choices - they are automatic nervous system reactions. For example, a survivor of sexual assault who "froze" rather than resisted may later be plagued by guilt or misunderstood by others. In a courtroom context, such behaviours can be misinterpreted as inconsistent, evasive, or even dishonest. Recognising the Five Fs as involuntary trauma responses is crucial in evaluating testimony, witness behaviour, and client demeanour.
The Neurobiology of TraumaThe article explains how trauma affects the brain, particularly the amygdala (our threat detection centre), and how this can hijack rational thought. When a traumatic memory is triggered, the brain responds as if the threat is still present, activating stress hormones and overriding the prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for logic and decision-making. This helps explain why trauma survivors may struggle to recall events in a linear fashion or why their behaviour may seem emotionally reactive or inconsistent.
Implications for Legal PracticeFor legal professionals, understanding these neurobiological and psychological responses is essential. Trauma can affect memory recall, communication, and emotional regulation - all of which influence client interviews, courtroom behaviour, and witness reliability. Adopting a trauma-informed approach can help ensure more accurate testimony and more humane treatment of survivors within the justice system.
Supporting Clients in the Legal SystemLodrick also highlights the importance of trust and emotional safety in any helping relationship. In legal practice, this means creating environments that reduce stress and fear, using language that empowers rather than intimidates, and being aware of how certain procedures may inadvertently re-traumatise clients. Trauma-informed legal work doesn't mean compromising justice - it means practising with compassion, awareness, and skill.
https://www.zoelodrick.co.uk/physcological-trauma-article
