DEVELOPING TRAUMA-INFORMED HR PROTOCOLS FOR ARCHIVISTS EXPOSED TO DISTRESSING HISTORICAL CONTENT

Abstract

Archivists employed with historical materials documenting violence, genocide, and becoming overly stressful, unique psychological challenges emerge through exposure to secondary trauma. However, human resource (HR) structures in archival institutions often fail to recognize the different emotional states connected to this work. Examples of this response include burnout, compassion fatigue, and lower job satisfaction. This article suggests initial thinking on developing trauma-informed HR protocols in the archival profession informed by interdisciplinary perspectives from psychology, occupational health, and archival studies. The study shares results of a review of archival personnel duties, role expectations, and interviews with archival professionals to identify meaningful gaps in organizational support systems. Practical interventions proposed include: reflective supervision; flexible design of work; and embedded wellness resources. The proposed protocols aim to enhance resiliency, destigmatize feelings of emotional distress and cultivate healthy, sustainable work for archivists. The research is key to a greater understanding of mental health experience and contribution to the archive and related professions cultural, heritage sector. Lastly, archival institutions need policies be HR engagement processes focused on empathetic, contextualized engagement processes.