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Tips for Taking Care of Trauma Survivors When Interviewing Them

Explain the purpose of the conversation very clearly. Offer all the options you have available in terms of location, privacy, time, method of interview, and recording option. If possible, offer childcare to parents.

Maintain eye contact. Allow the speaker to lead the conversation. Never interrupt. Do not criticize, interpret, or counter any statement. Validate often with nodding and body language (but try not to make sympathetic sounds the microphone can pick up.)

Uphold the dignity and self-perception of the speaker at all times. Let them know that you are capable and willing to hear as much emotionally difficult material as they wish to share. Express your genuine emotional reactions to their story.

Ask short, open-ended, questions: "Where did you live in New Orleans?" "Who raised you?" "How did you get here to Austin?" "How do you like it here?" "How are you feeling?"

Speak from the "I" perspective. For example: "I am so sorry for what happened to you. I am angry about how you were treated. I am inspired by how strong you are."

Be aware of your own biases and limits (racial, religious, economic, regional). You are here to listen to their stories, not to tell yours—unless asked.

To close the interview, ask questions which are rooted in the Here-and-Now. Ask if you can touch them, before you offer a hug or a caring gesture. If the speaker seems upset, make sure that they have counseling options, or family or friends nearby before you leave.

Make sure the speaker knows how to contact you, and can get a copy of his or her story, change it, or add to it. Do not share or publish any story before returning a copy of the transcript to the speaker for their review.

When discussing the release form, say, "This is the paper that you can sign if you'd like me to make your words public on the internet or in a book or the library. Would you like to read it, or would you like me to read it to you?" Make sure that the speaker knows they are free to sign or not to sign.

Thank the speaker for sharing their story and express that it is a gift many people will learn and benefit from into the future.

—Alive in Truth

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