Which practice is NOT consistent with a trauma-informed response?

• A. Interrupting the victim to gather information
• B. Letting the victim speak freely
• C. Providing emotional safety by explaining procedures
• D. Allowing breaks

Answer: (A)

Trauma-informed care centers on safety, choice, and empowerment for the person you’re talking with. Interrupting the victim to gather information undermines safety and control, can feel coercive, and risks re-traumatizing them by pushing for rapid disclosure before they’re ready. It interrupts their narrative flow and can erode trust. By contrast, letting the victim speak freely supports autonomy and helps build rapport. Explaining procedures to provide emotional safety reduces uncertainty and anxiety, making the person feel informed and respected. Allowing breaks helps regulate heightened emotions and prevent overwhelm. Because interrupting undermines safety and agency, it is not consistent with a trauma-informed response.