Compassion Satisfaction
Compassion satisfaction is the positive feelings that helpers feel as a result of what they do. It is a feeling of satisfaction of seeing the impact of care and interventions on their patient’s life (Harr, 2013). These pleasurable feelings bring a sense of fulfillment and wellbeing to the helper (Craig and Sprang, 2010; University of Iowa, 2009). In fact, it motivates them to continue their work, and hope that it matters (Harr, 2013).
Compassion satisfaction is correlated with lower levels of compassion fatigue and burnout (Harr, 2013). Researchers believe that instead of focusing on how to relieve compassion fatigue, helpers should be proactive and focus on increasing their compassion satisfaction (Harr, 2013).
Experience in the field and competency in job performance increases compassion satisfaction (Craig and Sprang, 2010; Harr, 2013). Similarly, being in a position where the helper’s strengths are being utilized can also increase this satisfaction (Craig and Sprang, 2010). If a helper has realistic expectations of what their work can accomplish, they are more likely to experience compassion satisfaction (Harr, 2013). In social work, research found that a supportive work climate positively impacted compassion satisfaction because it encourages relationships, mutual learning and self-care (Harr, 2013).
Compassion satisfaction is correlated with lower levels of compassion fatigue and burnout (Harr, 2013). Researchers believe that instead of focusing on how to relieve compassion fatigue, helpers should be proactive and focus on increasing their compassion satisfaction (Harr, 2013).
Experience in the field and competency in job performance increases compassion satisfaction (Craig and Sprang, 2010; Harr, 2013). Similarly, being in a position where the helper’s strengths are being utilized can also increase this satisfaction (Craig and Sprang, 2010). If a helper has realistic expectations of what their work can accomplish, they are more likely to experience compassion satisfaction (Harr, 2013). In social work, research found that a supportive work climate positively impacted compassion satisfaction because it encourages relationships, mutual learning and self-care (Harr, 2013).