Effects of high sensory processing sensitivity and coping strategies on compassion fatigue among speech-language therapists

Speech and language therapy is a female-dominated profession with real public health issues, yet it is under-researched. This cross-sectional quantitative study examines sensory processing sensitivity in female speech and language therapists, its impact on compassion fatigue and coping strategies used. Sensory processing sensitivity is usually considered a vulnerability factor in the workplace, as it tends to increase, for example, the risk of burnout (one of the components of compassion fatigue, which corresponds to the negative aspect of patient care for carers). If professionals can use coping strategies, it remains to be determined which are most effective for the most sensitive speech and language therapists. A sample of 602 French and Belgian speech and language therapists anonymously completed three questionnaires: HSPS-FR (sensitivity), ProQOL (compassion fatigue), WCC-R (coping strategies). Data were analyzed using correlations, Kruskal-Wallis tests, linear regressions, and mediation analyses in JASP. The regression model explained 42.7% of the variance in compassion fatigue. Findings revealed that sensitivity affects compassion fatigue, with coping strategies acting as mediators. Problem-focused coping reduced compassion fatigue, while emotions-focused coping increased it. Despite certain limitations, the study provides new perspectives with practical implications for improving training programs and supporting the well-being of speech and language therapists.