Trauma and the Brain, Implications of Trauma for Investigative Interviews

This webinar explains in practical terms the physiological impact of childhood and intergenerational trauma on the brain. It  explores the implications for investigative interviews conducted with people suffering trauma. This is a must watch for any investigators who deal with victims of traumatic events, traumatised communities, multigenerational trauma or childhood trauma.

Understanding the physical impact of trauma on the brain

The webinar provides a  basic understanding of neuroscience. How trauma impacts different parts of the brain and causes permanent changes to the brain structure.  

Definition and types of trauma

Allison leads you through  understanding definitions of trauma, including recent trauma, historical trauma and the indigenous experience. 

Definitions of trauma that include domestic abuse to political terror and include developmental trauma from early childhood. 

With specific attention on the impact of trauma and brain function, Allison discussed how trauma impacts on:

• memory,
• behaviour 
• emotion 
• cognition 

What you will learn

• How the changes can lead to unusual behaviours  in interviewees that can cause  investigators to disbelieve victims and dismiss complaints.  
• How to approach interviewees to  create safe spaces, build trust and non judgemental environment where victims can tell their story.  
• Lastly you will learn about the role of cold water and sleep and how these can be your friend in calming someone experiencing traumatic events enabling investigators to obtain the information they need to take action.  

Allisons’ calm and multidisciplinary approach to the topic is refreshing and insightful. She brings decades of experience of working with high profile offenders and indigenous communities to deliver this vital awareness about trauma.