Perspectives on a System-Oriented Trauma-Informed Approach in Schools: A Qualitative Study Using the Trauma-Informed Programs and Practices for Schools (TIPPS) Framework

Exposure to trauma and early adversity can negatively affect youth development. Educational settings are well-positioned to help youth build resilience to the effects of trauma; however, they remain poorly equipped to implement strategies that support youth with trauma histories. Thus, we investigated the extent to which schools have implemented a trauma-informed approach, which was conceptualized using the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's Four R's of Trauma-Informed Care and the Trauma-Informed Programs and Practices for Schools (TIPPS) framework. TIPPS is an adaptable system-oriented approach for addressing trauma. To explore the extent to which their schools realize, recognize, respond, and resist retraumatization, we conducted semistructured interviews with school professionals (n = 20). Interview findings suggest that many school professionals realize and recognize trauma to some extent; however, they have difficulty responding to trauma and resisting retraumatization of students. Incorporating elements of the TIPPS framework into teaching practices, trainings, and policies will bolster the capacity to respond to the needs of students and resist retraumatizing students. Findings strengthen our understanding of the supports needed by school professionals to implement a system-wide trauma-informed approach.