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

Vicarious Trauma

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.

Managing vicarious trauma in the legal profession – A comprehensive guide

Psychosocial risks, Vicarious Trauma

The legal profession, often associated with high intellectual demands and intense workloads, faces unique challenges when it comes to managing psychosocial risks. Among these, vicarious trauma stands out as a significant concern, especially for those involved in emotionally loaded cases, including, but not limited to, family law, criminal defence, and human rights advocacy. Vicarious trauma,…

Integrating self-care practices in work environments to combat vicarious trauma

Psychosocial risks

In professions where exposure to traumatic content is inevitable, vicarious trauma is a psychosocial risk that cannot be eliminated. Workplaces then need to establish strong protective factors and controls to minimise the risk to employee wellbeing as much as possible. One of these protective factors is prioritising self-care. By integrating self-care into the organisational culture,…