Moral Damage vs. Psychological/Psychiatric Injury: Analysis of the Position of Trauma Therapists

Abstract

The results of the study indicate that while most trauma therapists have encountered the legal concept of "moral harm", they are unable to explain its meaning. At the same time, clients with psychological trauma, according to most of the surveyed specialists, have never taken legal action to seek compensation for the suff ering caused by off enses. According to the majority of respondents, the main reasons preventing people with psychological trauma from going to court for compensation are a lack of awareness about this possibility and a desire to avoid any interactions (even through legal proceedings) with the perpetrator. Additionally, most specialists pointed out that symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) themselves serve as a barrier to seeking compensation in court. An overwhelming majority of trauma therapists expressed support for the mandatory appointment of a lawyer for all victims of violent acts, as well as the creation of a specialized fi nancial assistance fund for victims (to cover psychological, medical, social, legal, and other expenses). A signifi cant number of specialists also advocated for adopting the term "psychological/psychiatric injury" (instead of the existing "moral harm") and for drawing on the positive experience of progressive Western countries in this area. Implementing a trauma-informed approach in psychotherapy and counseling would not only help clients restore their legal rights and interests but also promote social and psychological justice, rebuild trust in people and society, and signifi cantly enhance the therapeutic process of trauma recovery.