THE COST OF CARING: EXPERIENCES OF COMPASSION FATIGUE, SATISFACTION AND COPING IN CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGISTS

Abstract

This qualitative study explores the experiences of clinical psychologists with compassion fatigue, compassion satisfaction, and the ways they cope with the high emotional demands of their work. An additional aim of the study was to identify the stressors that contribute to the development of compassion fatigue. Using a purposive sampling method, in-depth interviews were conducted with six clinical psychologists, each lasting between 45 and 60 minutes. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Four superordinate themes emerged from the data: Compassion Fatigue, Coping Mechanisms, Empathic Concerns, and Compassion Satisfaction. The study also identified a range of coping strategies employed by psychologists, including engaging in self-care activities, participating in peer support groups, using religious coping methods, and applying emotional bracketing techniques to manage the impact of compassion fatigue. In conclusion, this study underscores the importance of fostering self-awareness and resilience within the profession to promote clinicians psychological well-being and enhance their capacity to provide compassionate care.