Compassion Fatigue and Countertransference: Two Different Concepts

Abstract

There has been considerable conceptual confusion about the differences between compassion fatigue and countertransference. This often results in them being treated as the same phenomena, both in the literature and clinically. This paper maintains that these are, in fact, two different concepts that derive from different sources and serve different functions. Each of these two concepts requires different kinds of interventions as well.

Understanding Compassion Fatigue

“…While CF is thought to be the result of overexposure to the suffering of others over time (Berzoff & Kita, 2010), it can emerge "suddenly and without warning" (SlocumGori, Hemsworth, Chan, Carson, & Kazanjian, 2013, p. 173). In addition to sustained suffering through others, it is also thought that individuals who experience CF do not keep up with their own self-care, and might lack proper supports in their workplace (Alkema, Linton, & Davies, 2008, p. 103).…”

Fieldwork Education in Health Contexts: Experiences of Fourth-Year BSW Students

“…The therapist's needs are met and not the clients' (Berzoff & Kita, 2010;Rosenberger & Hayes, 2002). Countertransference can result in defensive behaviour or avoidance of the situation.…”

“…This might influence the relationship with the client, and have an impact on the session and the therapist's perceptions about his/her characteristics to assist the client (Rosenberger & Hayes, 2002). Berzoff and Kita (2010) distinguish between countertransference as a result of unresolved issues by the therapist, and compassion fatigue as a reaction of countertransference, where the client and therapist mutually influenced each other. Compassion fatigue is a result of overexposure to client's suffering and the therapist is emotionally involved in a manner that negatively impact personally and professionally.…”

vécu professionnel des intervenants de la relation d'aide :

“…D'ailleurs, ces deux termes sont souvent confondus dans les écrits scientifiques (Berzoff & Kita, 2010), Afin de dresser un portrait général, les répercussions répertoriées dans la littérature sur la FC et le TV seront présentées simultanément selon qu'elles appartiennent au niveau personnel ou professionnel. La section 2,3, quant à elle, s'attardera sur les répercussions qui sont spécifiques au TV.…”

“…La principale limite se situe dans la confusion entre certains termes fréquemment utilisés dans les écrits portant sur la FC ou le TV (Berzoff & Kita, 2010;Tabor, 2011). Autrement dit, il y a une confusion entre les termes «fatigue de Le microsystème rassemble les milieux de vie immédiats dans lesquels la personne joue un rôle actif (Drapeau, 2008).…”