Trauma-Informed Leadership: Recognising, Responding, and Rebuilding Organisational Resilience

Dr. Zoe Wyatt

This article explores trauma-informed leadership within corporate environments, highlighting the relevance of psychological and physiological trauma in shaping workplace behaviours and organisational dynamics. Drawing on interdisciplinary research, it challenges traditional leadership models that prioritise performance metrics over relational understanding, arguing instead for leadership approaches that are responsive to the pervasive impact of trauma. The article examines how trauma can manifest in professional settings - not only through individual behaviours but also in organisational cultures - and considers how systemic factors such as cultural, historical, and intergenerational trauma influence employee experiences. Key principles of trauma-informed leadership are outlined, with a focus on psychological safety, empowerment, and cultural responsiveness. A practical framework is presented to assist leaders in recognising trauma-related behaviours and responding with strategies that foster connection, trust, and resilience. While there is no one-size-fits-all method for addressing trauma in the workplace, this article offers a research-informed foundation for cultivating leadership practices that support individual wellbeing and enhance collective organisational functioning.
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