When Caring Comes with a Cost: A Qualitative Participatory Action Research Study of Compassion Fatigue in Medical Education Student Affairs Professionals.
Date of Award
12-12-2024
Degree Name
Ed.D. in Leadership for Organizations
Department
Department of Educational Administration
Advisor/Chair
Matthew Witenstein
Abstract
The focus of this study is on the lived experiences of medical education student affairs professionals assisting medical students in times of crisis or through traumatic events that led to compassion fatigue. Using a phenomenological approach, qualitative data was collected from participants who, in addition to their professional role, also serve as a regional leader in the Group on Student Affairs within the Association of American Medical Colleges. Three major themes emerged, which were the interpretations of compassion fatigue, the experiences and impacts from compassion fatigue, and the support and understanding needed for those impacted by compassion fatigue. Utilizing the frameworks of Reflective Practice and Critical Theory of Love, this study culminates in the creation of an action plan aimed to help medical education student affairs professionals and their institutional leadership identify, address, and overcome the impacts of compassion fatigue while building a community of care.
Keywords
Higher Education Administration
Rights Statement
Copyright © 2024, author.
Recommended Citation
Burch-Windren, Lisa, "When Caring Comes with a Cost: A Qualitative Participatory Action Research Study of Compassion Fatigue in Medical Education Student Affairs Professionals." (2024). Graduate Theses and Dissertations. 7492.
https://ecommons.udayton.edu/graduate_theses/7492
