What Is Moral Injury?

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Moral injury (MI) occurs when committing or observing actions that go against one's moral principles.

Moral injury can prompt internalized feelings of anger, worthlessness, guilt, and shame.

Due to an overlap of MI and PTSD, social workers can use trauma-focused interventions to address MI.

Moral injury occurs when someone is exposed to actions or inaction that conflict with their moral beliefs. Ideally, recovery from moral injury on the job includes an ability to separate self-worth and occupation. Disentangling the person from the professional persona facilitates personal development and authenticity, as opposed to highlighting the identity that collapsed as a result of a professional mistake or mishap. Stepping out of the uniform after moral injury is often a relief for someone struggling after trauma, affording time for careful consideration of whether or when to step back in. Supportive friends, family, faith leaders, and colleagues can help someone struggling with moral injury by affirming authentic self-worth........

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