Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist Practice Exam

What is compassion fatigue also known as?

1. Excessive enthusiasm

2. Worker fatigue

3. Vicarious trauma

4. Career burnout

The correct answer is: Vicarious trauma

Compassion fatigue is a phenomenon primarily observed in caregivers, health professionals, and those in service-oriented roles who work closely with individuals experiencing trauma or significant emotional distress. It is commonly referred to as vicarious trauma because it describes the emotional toll taken on individuals who provide care and support to others facing traumatic experiences. When caregivers consistently witness and engage with the pain and suffering of others, they may begin to experience similar emotional distress, leading to symptoms that mimic those of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This term helps to highlight the indirect exposure to trauma that can occur in helping professions, distinguishing it from concepts like worker fatigue or career burnout, which may refer to general exhaustion or disillusionment in one's job without the direct connection to the emotional impact of others' trauma. Vicarious trauma specifically captures the essence of the compassion fatigue experience, emphasizing the relational dynamics involved in caregiving and the emotional burdens that come with consistently supporting those who are struggling.