ABSTRACT
This chapter describes the reactions which might be expected in staff who have been assaulted, and less common, but more severe, reactions which can occur. Understanding the nature and range of reactions possible in response to such incidents enables organisations to help staff in coping with the aftermath of work-related violence. Victims can defend against anxiety about future assaults by blaming themselves for causing the incident. A temporary loss of confidence in the workplace is common, but if the incident has been particularly traumatic, then the individual may feel changed in a fundamental way. The process of helping people recover from trauma should involve all levels of organisations, through an integrated organisational approach to the problem of violence. As part of the integrated organisational approach to the problem of violence, the organisation should have procedures in place whereby assaulted individuals are cared for in the immediate and the longer-term aftermath.
