The Impact of Trauma on User Experience: Insights from Jo Levy

Описание: In this engaging conversation, Janiessa Norice and Jo Levy delve into the concept of trauma-informed design, a niche yet increasingly relevant area in content design. Jo explains that trauma affects everyone, not just those who have experienced significant events, and emphasizes the importance of understanding the emotional states of users when they interact with online services.

They discuss the distinction between 'big T' and 'little t' traumas, highlighting how even minor life changes can impact a person's ability to process information and make decisions. Jo advocates for creating user experiences that are sensitive to these emotional states, aiming to reduce cognitive load and avoid overwhelming users with information.

The discussion further explores the idea of meeting users where they are in their journey, rather than relying solely on personas. Jo shares insights from her work with a charity focused on gender-based violence, emphasizing the need for plurality in understanding user experiences. They also touch on the overlaps between trauma-informed design and accessibility, noting that many principles apply to both areas. The conversation wraps up with practical tips for content designers, such as minimizing cognitive load, using clear language, and structuring content effectively to guide users through their experiences without adding to their stress.