ScaleSecondary Traumatic Stress Scale (STSS-17)

Description

The Secondary Traumatic Stress Scale (STSS-17) is a scientifically validated psychometric instrument designed to assess the symptoms of secondary traumatic stress experienced by professionals who are repeatedly exposed to the traumatic experiences of others, including mental health professionals, social workers, healthcare providers, emergency personnel, and first responders. Based on the core symptom clusters of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), the STSS-17 evaluates three primary dimensions: Re-experiencing, Avoidance, and Arousal. The instrument is widely used in clinical practice, occupational health, and psychological research to identify professionals at increased risk of compassion fatigue and work-related traumatic stress.

Data Analysis

Data obtained from the STSS-17 are analyzed by calculating total and subscale scores, descriptive statistics, and psychometric properties. Statistical analyses commonly include assessment of internal consistency using Cronbach’s alpha, evaluation of construct validity through Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) and Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA), correlation analyses, group comparisons, and Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) to investigate the relationships between secondary traumatic stress, burnout, compassion fatigue, anxiety, depression, resilience, and overall psychological well-being.

Objective

The primary objective of the Secondary Traumatic Stress Scale (STSS-17) is to provide a reliable assessment of the severity of secondary traumatic stress symptoms among professionals working with traumatized individuals. The instrument supports the early identification of high-risk professionals, the development of targeted prevention and intervention programs, and the evaluation of strategies aimed at reducing occupational psychological distress and promoting workforce well-being.

Scoring

The STSS-17 consists of 17 items assessing the three core dimensions of secondary traumatic stress: Re-experiencing, Avoidance, and Arousal. Responses are typically recorded using a Likert response scale, and individual item scores are summed to generate subscale and total scores. Higher scores indicate more severe secondary traumatic stress symptoms and a greater likelihood of clinically significant psychological distress requiring further assessment or supportive intervention.

References

Bride, B. E. (2007). The Impact of Trauma on Social Workers: A Study of Secondary Traumatic Stress. Social Work, 52(3), 225–233.

Figley, C. R. (1995). Compassion Fatigue: Coping with Secondary Traumatic Stress Disorder in Those Who Treat the Traumatized. Brunner/Mazel.

McCann, I. L., & Pearlman, L. A. (1990). Vicarious Traumatization: A Framework for Understanding the Psychological Effects of Working with Victims. Journal of Traumatic Stress, 3(1), 131–149.