Overview

Through an interview with internationally renowned trauma expert Dr. Bessel van der Kolk, this activity will take you through emerging ideas about navigating trauma in the digital world.

Trauma, as we know, is a complex and unique phenomena, impacting on people in various ways. Many factors can compound the experience of trauma, and it can manifest across many areas of life, depending on the time, the severity and the chronicity of the trauma experienced. We need to be mindful of all facets where trauma can present itself, being sensitive to how we approach our treatment and support of those experiencing trauma.

Digital and social media is here to stay. The impact that it has on our ability to access information, to connect with others and to engage with the world around us has been profound. These platforms enable information to be spread across the globe in a matter of seonds, and while this can be vital in times of need, it can also have the potential to spread misinformation, or half informed ‘truths’, which may impact individuals a range of ways.

This is the third activity in the series and builds on knowledge and skills acquired from completing Foundations in trauma and Foundations in trauma: Perinatal trauma.

The activity is divided into five topics, with approximately two hours required for completion. There is a final quiz which requires an 80% pass rate to successfully pass the course and attain your certificate of completion.

Level of Learning

Intermediate. This activity is targeted to those with some previous learning on the topic.

Related activites

This series comprises of other activities that build and extend your knowledge:

• Foundations in trauma

• Foundations in trauma: Perinatal trauma

Target audience

Psychologists, allied health practitioners, general practitioners, nurses.

Duration of access

Access to this eLearning activity is for 6 months from the date of confirmed registration.

APS CPD-Approved

This activity has been assessed against the APS Standards for CPD activities and approved for its education quality. Learn more about the APS CPD Approval process.

CPD Frequently Asked Questions

Refer to the APS CPD Frequently Asked Questions for general and technical information when undertaking APS Professional development activities.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this eLearning activity, participants should be able to:

• analyse the biopsychosocial effects of trauma across the lifespan in the context of the digital age,

• evaluate current understandings on the impacts of various form of digital media (social, TV, print) on individuals with trauma histories,

• synthesise knowledge of neurological, social, and psychological impacts when digital media intersects with trauma experiences, and

• develop evidence-based strategies for psychologists and allied health professionals to address trauma in the digital age.

Notes