Enhancing Intellectual Empathy: The Lived Experience of Voice Simulation

PURPOSE: This study aimed to understand the lived experience of voice simulation with the novice nurse and to describe the impact on the nurse's empathy and desire to develop a therapeutic relationship. DESIGN AND METHODS: Twenty-eight women and men participated in a detailed narrative investigation of reflective writing of the lived experience of hearing voices through a voice simulation experience. FINDINGS: A sense of insight was developed, and participants felt they could empathize with this type of suffering. The ability to change attitudes to focus on the development of therapeutic relationships was enhanced. PRACTICE IMPLICATION: Voice simulation assists the novice nurse in developing intellectual empathy.