Compassion Fatigue: What Is the Level Among Army Chaplains?

Abstract

Army chaplains assigned to Fort Bragg, NC, units were explored for compassion fatigue with contributory factors, compassion satisfaction, and burnout. The Compassion Fatigue Process developed by Charles Figley was used as the framework of the study. The sample consisted of 69 individuals. Findings indicated a low level of compassion fatigue and burnout, and approximately average level of compassion satisfaction. However, there was an association between compassion fatigue and the average number of hours per week working with wounded victims' friends and family. Collaboration with other mental health providers, increased peer support, and education may lessen the development of compassion fatigue.