CONFERENCE on INNOVATIONS in TRAUMA RESEARCH METHODS
November 16-17, 2008
Hotel Orrington
Chicago's North Shore

CITRM 2008

GOALS OF THE CONFERENCE ON INNOVATIONS IN TRAUMA RESEARCH METHODS

Psychological trauma is common and its effects can be severe. The number of research articles devoted to psychological trauma has increased dramatically over the last twenty years, but trauma research is still in its youth. Trauma research has distinctive methodological dilemmas; distinctive ethical challenges; and distinctive logistical hurdles. Due to these distinctive characteristics, the methodological rigor of trauma research may be weaker than in the study of, for example, mood disorders. Moreover, there are relatively few opportunities for training in trauma research, and existing conferences in the field of trauma have focused primarily on research content, not methods. Therefore, the goals of the Conference on Innovations in Trauma Research Methods (CITRM) are as follows:

1. To strengthen the methodological rigor of trauma research. This goal will be achieved by providing invited workshops on design, statistics, and other research and quantitative issues applicable to the yearly conference theme and submitted sessions on a variety of topics (beginning with CITRM 2005).

2. To develop creative solutions to design and analysis issues unique to trauma research. The conference will hold a "Methodological Think Tank" in which experts in research methods will attempt to develop solutions to thorny dilemmas in trauma research. Another feature will be a "Dissection of Innovative Methods": The author[s] of a published paper in the field of trauma that used novel research techniques will explain how the innovative research methods were applied within the study.

3. To supplement and enhance the training of novice researchers. The conference will include invited sessions in which the content is geared to beginning researchers, and informal (e.g., refreshment breaks) and formal (e.g., "Meet the Experts" lunch, Research Career Planning) opportunities for beginning researchers to interact with more seasoned researchers. CITRM will also include travel awards to minority novice researchers and offer formal mentoring opportunities.

4. To enhance diffusion of innovative research methods and designs from other disciplines and specialties. CITRM has the benefit of an Advisory Board of experts in research methods, many of whom have never engaged in trauma research, along with expert trauma researchers. These distinguished scientists are drawn from a wide range of disciplines. One year prior to each conference, the Advisory Board will provide input regarding new methodological developments in their field and names of potential speakers.

5. To explore ethical dilemmas and possible solutions in trauma research. The conference will have a yearly research ethics workshop tied to the conference theme. In addition, three members of the Advisory Board are recognized experts on research ethics.

 

For more information, contact Lauren McSweeney at: Lauren.McSweeney@va.gov.