Topic 2: Risk Factors of Compassion Fatigue

Topic 2: Risk Factors of Compassion Fatigue

http://www.figleyinstitute.com/documents/Workbook_AMEDD_SanAntonio_2012July20_RevAugust2013.pdf

FACTORS CONTRIBUTING TO COMPASSION STRESS MANAGEMENT

  • Emotional Contagion is experiencing the feelings of suffering as a function of exposure to the sufferer.
  • Empathic Concern is the motivation to respond to people in need.
  • Empathic Ability is the aptitude for noticing the pain of others.
  • Empathic Response is the extent to which the helper makes an effort to reduce the suffering of the sufferer.
  • Disengagement is the extent to which the helper can distance himself or herself from the ongoing misery of the traumatized person.
  • Sense of Achievement is the extent to which the helper is satisfied with his or her efforts to help the client/sufferer.
  • Compassion Stress is the demand for action to relieve the suffering of others.  
  • Prolonged Exposure is the on-going sense of responsibility for the care of the suffering, over a protracted period of time.
  • Traumatic Recollections are memories that trigger the symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and associated reactions, such as depression and generalized anxiety.
  • Life Disruption is the unexpected changes in schedule, routine, and managing life responsibilities that demand attention (e.g., illness, changes in lifestyle, social status, or professional or personal responsibilities).

Understanding the risk factors of compassion fatigue is key to prevention. Certain personal and professional factors can increase our vulnerability, making it essential to identify and manage them proactively.