The healing effects of creative expression experienced by people who identify themselves as having compassion fatigue : a phenomenological study
The healing effects of creative expression experienced by people who identify themselves as having compassion fatigue is a phenomenological study of the impact that engagement in creative expression activities has on the reduction of symptoms of compassion fatigue, which is the phenomenon of becoming traumatized by extended or intense exposure to the trauma of others. Historical studies support the responsiveness of compassion fatigue to intervention. This study explores the healing power of the arts as interventions in reducing the stress and fatigue related to working with traumatized clients. A tri-state (Michigan, Arizona and Louisiana) sample of eleven professionals from a variety of fields, including law, education, medicine, mental health and pastoral care, were interviewed. the participants were of different gender, ethnicity and age-range. They met the criteria for this study by scoring at or above the mid-range of the Compassion Fatigue Self-Test (Figley, 1995), and by regularly participating in specific modes of creative expression, i.e., visual art, dance/movement, drama, music and poetry. Through data analysis, eight themes emerge to indicate that within the experience of the phenomenon is: (1) recognition that adult modalities of creative expression used for healing are rooted in childhood healing creative expression activities; (2) use of creativity as a curative means of escape from trauma-work related stress; (3) reduction of somatic symptoms of compassion fatigue; (4) personal spiritual enrichment; (5) holistic transformation to greater well-being; (6) revived sense of purpose in caring for self and others; (7) fresh sense of aliveness; (8) movement from compassion fatigue to energized healing. This study has implications for the development of trauma-specific stress reduction and management that is grounded in creative expression and applicable to professionals within and outside of the mental health field. Recommendations for future research are offered
Academic Dissertation
1 online resource (162 pages)
9780542310782, 0542310783
781729931