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Resources

We are learning more everyday about how design affects our social, emotional and physiological health. The Trauma-informed Design Framework is based on empirical and scientific evidence in the realms of psychology, neuroscience, and physiology, which is filtered through an equity lens, and applied to design. It acknowledges the prevalence of trauma throughout society, and the compounding effects of structural inequities on marginalized communities, and seeks to foster healing by promoting spaces that can reduce stress and create a sense of safety. Learn more about the framework and the science behind it.

Featured

Trauma-informed Design Evaluation Tool for K-12 Schools (TiDEvalK12)

Schools can use this award-winning tool to evaluate their physical space and identify changes that can lower the stress levels of students and staff.  It is grounded in SAMHSA's guidance for a trauma-informed approach, the Trauma-informed Design Society's framework, and feedback from educators, school administrators, and designers.  This project was supported by the American Society of Interior Designers Foundation.

Trauma-informed Design Evaluation Tool for K-12 Schools (TiDEvalK12)

Trauma-informed Design Research and Resources

We are learning more everyday about how design affects our social, emotional and physiological health. The Trauma-informed Design Framework is based on empirical and scientific evidence in the realms of psychology, neuroscience, and physiology, which is filtered through an equity lens, and applied to design. It acknowledges the prevalence of trauma throughout society, and the compounding effects of structural inequities on marginalized communities, and seeks to foster healing by promoting spaces that can reduce stress and create a sense of safety. Learn more about the framework and the science behind it.

Talks, Podcasts, and Presentations

There seems to continuously be more information available about trauma, it's potential negative effects, and how we can intervene, through care and design. We've combed through the vast media resources available and curated a list tailored to for designers. See what the experts are saying.

Cornell Keynote
Trauma-informed Design Interventions: 
How to Build Environments to Serve Older Adults

As communities evaluate innovative solutions for aging in place and delivery of care, this panel explored how Trauma-informed Design can inform our approaches to living environments for aging adults and their caregivers.

Transforming Correctional Design for Justice Reform

This panel discussion, hosted by Boston Architectural College, addresses the real consequences of the prison environment on human biology, which result in lasting impacts on incarcerated individuals, and provides an alternative approach to correctional design in light of these irrefutable facts.

Ongoing Research

The research on how design can impact human emotions is ongoing. We bring you information about some of the most exciting studies currently in process.

Featured Student Work

More and more schools and programs are starting to integrate a trauma-informed approach, and students are learning how to apply this lens to their designs. We've featured some of their best work here.

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