Trauma responses in service users are often missed, with shame being a key factor that is frequently overlooked. This workshop will focus on helping practitioners address shame to support personal growth and behavioural change. By using a shame-sensitive approach in family violence work, we can recognize that harmful behaviours may be coping mechanisms developed under stress.
The session covers practical tools, demonstrations, and addresses cultural influences, systemic oppression, and diverse learning styles. Participants will reflect on their engagement strategies and consider whether systems effectively protect against shame and trauma. Drawing from work with various groups, including those affected by addiction, incarceration, recent migration, and domestic violence.
Evidence demonstrates a strong link between shame and antisocial behaviours. Failing to centre shame in practice can increase the risk of violence – both, towards oneself and others. The workshop will examine how shame manifests, its relationship to identity, social wellbeing, social cohesion, and healthy functioning. Definitions of shame will be explored, alongside models for working effectively in this area.
The overarching aim of this session is to highlight the importance of understanding and centralising shame within practice, with consideration to cultural contexts. Without this focus, current approaches may fall short of being truly trauma-informed and shame-sensitive. By placing shame at the centre of our work, practitioners will be better equipped to support meaningful behavioural change and address violent and abusive behaviours more effectively.