Abstract
Public mass shootings occur most frequently in workplace settings, yet little is known about the experiences of survivors, co-victims, and first responders of these incidents and how they cope with this shared trauma. This collective case study examined the experiences of 14 survivors, co-victims, and first responders affected by a single workplace mass shooting. Reflexive thematic analysis revealed four main themes: (1) the spectrum of suffering, (2) ripple becomes wave: the spread of trauma, (3) forgotten in recovery, and (4) the healing power of shared experience. This study offers insight into the collective nature of impact and recovery, and how such events can foster feelings of alienation and disrupt social support systems. Findings underscore the importance of connecting affected individuals with those who either share their experience or can empathize with it. Implications for supporting the broader community and recommendations for future research are also discussed.
Recommended Citation
Cowan, R., Qualls, V., & Andreasen, S. (2025). Navigating Collective Trauma Following a Workplace Mass Shooting. Trauma Counseling and Resilience, 2(2). https://doi.org/10.33470/2997-7088.1048