Which arrangement reflects the trauma-informed care principle of Choice and collaboration?

• A. Safety
• B. Cultural sensitivity
• C. Choice and collaboration
• D. Punitive measures

Answer: (C)

Choice and collaboration means giving people control over their care and working with them in planning and decisions. In trauma-informed care, empowering individuals and partnering with them helps counter the disempowerment that can accompany trauma, building trust and a sense of safety. The arrangement that best reflects this principle is one where the person is offered options in their services, asked for their preferences, and actively participates in decisions about their plan. Staff listen, discuss the benefits and trade-offs of choices, and adjust the plan based on the person’s input, rather than imposing a single path or using punitive actions. While safety and cultural sensitivity are important parts of trauma-informed care, the essential feature here is shared decision-making and honoring the person’s autonomy. Punitive measures undermine trust and are not aligned with this approach.