How to respectfully write characters with trauma

Today, we’re talking about trauma, the echo of adverse events that can leave an indelible imprint on our characters’ lives.

But why is it important to talk about this? Because trauma is part of the human experience, and understanding it deepens our characters and, by extension, our stories. This article aims to guide you through the process of creating characters with trauma – thoughtfully, accurately, and respectfully.

Understanding trauma

In psychological terms, trauma refers to an emotional response to a distressing event that overwhelms a person’s ability to cope. It comes in many shapes and sizes – from single-incident traumas like car accidents or natural disasters, to complex traumas like abuse or war.

Just as diverse are the responses to trauma. Some people may develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD); others might experience anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues. These responses can shape your character’s behaviour, perceptions, and relationships, adding depth and complexity to their narrative arc.

Researching trauma

Writing about trauma without doing your homework is like trying to bake a cake without a recipe – it might turn out all right, but chances are you’ll end up with a soggy mess. That’s why it’s crucial to research trauma thoroughly.

How, you ask? Medical texts and psychological research papers are a good start, as are memoirs and firsthand accounts from people who’ve experienced trauma. Don’t shy away from consulting mental health professionals, either.

Beware of stereotypes and misinformation, though. Not everyone who experiences trauma develops PTSD, and not all PTSD looks the same. For instance, in The Perks of Being a Wallflower, Charlie’s trauma is subtly hinted at throughout the book before being fully revealed, offering a well-researched portrayal of repressed trauma.

Creating traumatised characters

Now comes the challenging part – creating your traumatised characters. Remember, your characters aren’t defined solely by their trauma. They have hopes, dreams, likes, dislikes – the trauma is a facet of their character, not the whole gemstone.

Craft their trauma history carefully, understanding how and when it occurred and how it affected them. Authenticity is key. Their responses should mirror their experience, personality, and coping mechanisms. Similarly, when writing about trauma triggers, be respectful and realistic. Not every loud noise will trigger a war veteran, just as not every act of kindness will trigger someone who has suffered abuse.

Portraying trauma in your writing

When it comes to portraying trauma, less is often more. Graphic scenes aren’t necessary to communicate trauma and can potentially upset sensitive readers. Instead, focus on your character’s feelings, perceptions, and reactions.

The right perspective can make all the difference. A third-person viewpoint might provide distance, while a first-person perspective can offer a more intimate understanding of the character’s experiences. Dialogue, too, is a powerful tool – the way your character talks about their trauma (or avoids talking about it) can reveal a lot about their state of mind.

Writing trauma with sensitivity

When writing about trauma, a sensitivity reader can serve as an invaluable ally. They can provide feedback on the accuracy and authenticity of your portrayal of trauma, but finding the right sensitivity reader is key.

So where do you find these literary superheroes? You can start with online platforms dedicated to connecting authors with sensitivity readers. Freelance platforms often have sensitivity readers available as well. Writer’s groups and forums are also good places to look.

But how do you know if a sensitivity reader is the right fit? Firstly, check their credentials. Do they have professional experience or personal experiences that relate to the type of trauma you’re writing about? Have they worked on similar projects before?

Ask for a sample of their feedback on a piece of writing. This should give you an idea of their approach – a good sensitivity reader will provide detailed, constructive criticism, pointing out what isn’t working and what is.

Remember, the purpose of working with a sensitivity reader is to ensure your portrayal of trauma is accurate, respectful, and sensitive. They’re not there to pat you on the back – they’re there to challenge you, push you, and ultimately help you grow as a writer. Be open to their feedback, and be ready to revise and refine your work based on their suggestions.

Armed with these tips, you should be well-prepared to find and work with a sensitivity reader who can help you navigate the complex territory of writing about trauma.

The parting word

Navigating the narrative landscape of trauma is a delicate task. It requires careful research, thoughtful character development, and a deep respect for the profound impact of trauma on individuals’ lives. But with care, courage, and curiosity, you can portray characters with trauma in an authentic and respectful way.

Remember, you’re not just creating characters – you’re creating windows into experiences that can foster empathy, challenge stereotypes, and, ultimately, enrich your reader’s understanding of the human experience. And that, dear scribes, is truly powerful storytelling. Keep learning, keep growing, and keep writing!

‍