Controlled Empathy: Why It Matters When Working with Traumatic Content and Materials 

In many professions, empathy is essential for fostering interpersonal connections and building meaningful relationships. However, for those frequently exposed to traumatic content or distressing situations, high levels of empathy can be a risk factor for developing vicarious trauma. Over-identification with the pain or emotions within traumatic material can lead to heightened secondary stress symptoms compared to those with lower levels of empathy.