Exploring Compassion Fatigue and Community Care in Student Affairs

Authors

Rosemary J. Perez, University of Michigan
Genia M. Bettencourt, University of Memphis

Abstract

Many student affairs practitioners passionately support students, but the cost of caring may include compassion fatigue or secondary stress. This constructivist case study examined how a program that serves at-promise students contributes to and alleviates compassion fatigue among staff members. While the scope of work, position of the program at the institution, and high rates of staff transition challenged participants, their compassion fatigue was buffered by a culture of care and mentorship within the program.

Publication Title

Journal of Student Affairs Research and Practice

Recommended Citation

Perez, R., & Bettencourt, G. (2023). Exploring Compassion Fatigue and Community Care in Student Affairs. Journal of Student Affairs Research and Practice https://doi.org/10.1080/19496591.2023.2176774