Retraumatization refers to the reliving of trauma due to triggers similar to the original abuse, leading to feelings of violation and vulnerability. Dr. Koock Jung, an expert in sexual trauma, emphasizes that survivors often exhibit long-lasting behavioral and cognitive patterns as a result of their experiences. To mitigate retraumatization, professionals in health care and law enforcement are encouraged to adopt a trauma-informed approach that prioritizes the autonomy and respect of survivors.

1. What is Retraumatization?
Koock Jung

2. Introduction
Psychiatrist and subject matter expert on the pervasive effects of sexual trauma, Dr.
Koock Jung previously held lecturer and researcher positions at Albany Medical
College. Dr. Koock Jung also wrote extensively on the links between post-traumatic
stress disorder and experiences of sexual abuse.

3. People who have endured sexual trauma often develop long-lasting behavioral and
cognitive patterns that can lead to an experience known as retraumatization. By
definition, retraumatization occurs when a person relives their trauma due to
environmental or circumstantial triggers that are similar to where the abuse took
place. These triggers can often cause survivors to feel violated or vulnerable.

4. For example, routine procedures during a doctor’s examination or a police
investigation can inadvertently retraumatize survivors. In recent years, health care
providers, law enforcement officials, and mental health counselors are advised to
apply a trauma-informed approach that emphasizes autonomy, trust, and respect
when working with people who have experienced sexual assault.